In my testing there is a big difference especially with more conventional HPs. For the most part about with a conventional HP 800 ish is abou the bottom window for reliable expansion. Even when loaded to +P in the 3.3" a Hornady XTP for example isn't all that reliable on expansion. They open up just fine in a 5".

On conventional HPs the plain Remington and Winchester 230r JHP open up ok at lower velocities, but not nearly as drastic as a Gold Dot. In my opinion small calibers and short barrels are great candadates for premium bullets.

Nm

I have often wondered about the effect a shorter barrel has on just about any handgun, especially the 45 Auto.

Starting off with a full size 1911 and watching them shrink over the years has always left me with a nagging question in the back of my mind. "When" does barrel length start coming into play in the velocity/expansion factor of the grand old 45 Auto?

Thank goodness modern technology has provided us with so many options now. Watching the change the past 15-20 years in bullet design, has been amazing to say the least. There was a time I would be caught carrying anything less than a full 230 grain hollow point in a 5" 1911 for fear of it not doing it's job.

Thanks for sharing your test results. I'm sure I am not the only one who has wondered the same.

Murphy