Loaded up some sample rounds for testing and went to the range. I used Longshot (8.5, 9.0, & 9.5gr), 2400 (12.0 & 12.5gr), and AA#7 (11.5 & 12.0gr). It seems I got the best results with the maximum loads of each. For hunting, I've given myself a range of 30 yards.... Keeping then in the black of a NRA highpower SR-1 target offhand...  I  was having issues with light primer strikes so I've broken the pistol down and ordered a new firing pin, firing pin spring and mainspring. The firing pin spring was one that came with the Wolff 24lbs recoil spring kit. It may be a little heavy. The recoil spring worked rather well, throwing brass about 6' at 3:00.....The recoil was no more than my GP100 with its heavy 180 gr loads... Thanks again for your input!!

That is such a relief! I? really didn't want to go the new barrel route! Thank you very much for the detailed explanation!

Hello and Thank you,
  I just joined here. I was going through this forum and it is very fascinating... I wished I would have seen this earlier. There is a world of information here!!!

    I have a 4 digit serial number Colt Delta Elite, I've had it for about 30 years now and I've been considering using it to hunt with. I've reloaded for it (mostly low to mid range pressure loads for target shooting) but I wanted to load up ammunition that was powerful enough to hunt deer and hogs. (ex. 180 gr Hornady XTP @ 1100 - 1200fps or 200 grain XTP at 1000-1100fps)..I've started to research this and ran into the possibility that it is not recommended to do this with the Colt DE because of the unsupported barrel.....Is this true and if so, do I just shelf the project? Are there aftermarket barrels out there that are drop in and don't require major gunsmith work?  I do know I would have to go with a heavier lbs recoil spring so not to beat up the frame/ slide....Any information would be greatly appreciated... Thanks