Question: Ranger RA45T vs RA45TP (+p)

[Jeff S.]

My new carry piece is an all steel, bobtail 1911 commander. I've decided to use Ranger T's.

I bought a couple boxes of the regular 230gr. RA45T, and a couple boxes of the RA45TP (+p). I was very accurate with both. I could feel that the +p had more energy in the recoil, but I shot both equally well. I'm trying to decide which to use.

Here's my question. Intuitively, I would guess that the "+p" version would penetrate deeper and open larger. This assumption of mine is supported by Winchester's data. http://www.winchester.com/lawenforce...g/testing.aspx

However, I've read that the contrary is true: that the non +p version penetrates deeper because it doesn't open as quickly.

Which is true?




Thank you

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[nn]

don't know, but, +p is probably not worth the extra cost and wear and tear on the pistol at self defense ranges.

[levi333]

Just curious, but what did you pay for a box?
I just picked up som +p for $25 (50 rounds). It was the same price as the non +p.

[Jeff S.]

Yes, I did pay something like $25 dollar, and both versions cost the same

I bought two boxes of each to try them out. Once I decide, I'm going to buy a case, which equates to quantity discounts.

[dimmak]

I would imagine that unless you decide to fire large numbers of +p through the bobtail, the wear and tear will be a nominal factor....

[Jeff S.]

I would imagine that unless you decide to fire large numbers of +p through the bobtail, the wear and tear will be a nominal factor....

Correct; I'm not too worried about wear-and-tear on my gun. That is, afterall, one of the benefits of an all steel gun. Besides, I baby my gun by replacing the recoil spring every 800 rounds. I know that isn't necessary, but it gives me peace of mind, so it's worth the 8 bucks.

I think I'm going to choose the +p, because it too gives me peace of mind. I have about 25 rounds each of RA45T and RA45TP leftover, and I find myself carrying the RA45TP.

I'm still curious as to which will penetrate deeper. The +p has the greater momentum, but it opens up faster too. Any thoughts?

[papa_z]

Here is the diference between the ranger t and the ranger t +p the reg ranger t goes 890fps the +p ranger t goes 990 ft per second you may get a little mpre penatration like an 1or2 inches maybe even 3 out of the regular ranger t but i probly still would go with the +P just my thoughts....Its a very excellent round either way!!

[obxned]

I really like the +P. The recoil isn't a problem and the extra wear and tear is not an issue if used in a newer production gun that is approved for +P. I also use stronger Wolff recoil springs.

At close range the +P is not needed, but I use this gun for general carry in the field. Longer shots are just a bit easier with the slightly higher velocity, and retained energy and velocity are higher.

[mountainhound100]

IMO I would think it would depend on the time of year to determine what you would carry. I think in the summer it wouldn't really matter either way, but in the winter I might be apt to go with the +p just b/c of the extra layers of clothing and/or heavy coat. You might want the extra 1-2 inches of penetration. Just a thought.

chad