185 SWC vs. 185 HPSWC

Is there a functional difference between these two .45 cal lead bullets?  

In what applications is one be preferred over the other?

Assuming you mean Lead SWC and not jacketed, the HPSWC has a longer point, so there could be differences in gun functionality, but I've never heard of any issues with either bullet or the 200 SWC which has a point similar to the 185 HPSWC.

In general I would say the HPSWC is considered to be more accurate, but in most guns there isn't a lot of difference in accuracy between a good 185 SWC, 185 HPSW and 200 SWC. The hollow point moves the center of mass back further behind the center of pressure, so it should stabilize faster and better, but I think it's an improvement on an already very good design so you don't see a difference on the target. At least I haven't.

The only reasons to use one over the other would be availability and if you see a difference in your gun.

I shoot all three bullets with the same 3.8-4.2gr WST and they are all good.

Yes, I am referring to the lead version of the Bullets.

Thanks for the info.

The 185HPSWC is essentially a lightened 200gr #68 style bullet.  Some 185 SWCs are different shape.

I’ve shot many Ransom Rest groups with the 185, 185 HP, and 200 from Magnus.  All shot very, very well, with a nod towards the 185 HP for the most consistent grouping across all of my guns with various loads of 3.8-4.2 BE and 4.1-4.5 WST.  If memory serves, the 185 HP has the same bearing surface as the 200…probably one of the reasons why it shoots so well.

At 50 yards the 185 HPSWC is the most accurate bullet out of my Salyer wad gun and my Accuracy X both off a sandbag and in match results.