Dear TC Custom: I seem to be thoroughly happy with my new moon-clip loader and demooner. Thanks! The Handgunner letter was also published online by SnubNoir.com. --j
To the Editor...
I enjoyed your two recent stories on .45 LONG Colt and .45 ACP-chambered revolvers and reload/loading procedures. They brought back memories, as well as current enjoyment, of the revolver/cartridge combo.
Many years ago -- ca. 1965 -- I acquired a S&W 1917 for very-low-powered .45 roundball fun, including messy wax bullets; it was quite satisfactory for the time. However, the 1917 was lured away in a trade (sorry 'bout that!). Much later a S&W Model 625 took its place, and still later it was joined by an elegant Model 25-2. After reading Handloader I was reminded acutely of what I had been missing: a moon-clip loader and demooner that could remove the very-dubious pleasure associated with nicked and cut fingertips. Along the way, I had acquired good-quality plastic full-moon clips that were very helpful in the 625 but seemed not to fit the 25-2. So I ordered the TK Custom Moon Clip Loading and Unloading Bundle along with a few extra clips just in case, as discussed by Mike Venturino, our lamented revolver-loading guru.
Naturally over the years I had explored the chunky .45 Auto Rim cartridge, but there aren't many cases to be had compared to the profusion of ACP, and I prefer to standardize production when I can. I have explored both roll crimps and taper crimps; either seem to work well if you pay attention, keep the crimp snug, and be sure the primers are well-seated.
Thanks for the .45LC and ACP revolver stories.
--John Stratton
Old Lyme, Connecticut