[StrikeEagle]

I've been reloading 95 grn FMJ bullets on top of 3.2 of Bullseye in my .380 as a standard plinking load. It's 'supposed' to dupe factory ballistics. It functions in my guns, it's only for plinking and I've used it for years without thinking much about it. In fact, according to a few sources it's ABOVE max by a few tenths. In any case it's not light, as .380 goes.

But today... I Chrony'd it. For the first time. I get right around 600 fps out of my PPK/S.

Dang, how can that be? Can that be right? I should be getting around 900!

http://www.handloads.com/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=380%20ACP&Weight=95&type=Handgun&Order=Powder&Source=Alliant

Can someone else verify this result? I'm shocked!

Many thanks! :)

StrikeEagle

[MNgoldenbear]

Yeah, my Sierra 4th gives 900 fps out of a PPK for that load. Though there are a lot of variables, a 30%+ difference in velocity would have me checking the chronograph. Hard to get an absolute check without reference ammo, but .22 LR in a rifle should get you 1000-1100 fps with standard velocity, and around 1200 or so with high velocity. If these are way lower also, then there's a chrono problem. Did you check your set-up for the chronograph? (lighting, shooting angle, etc.)?

[taliv]

more likely, you need to check your powder scale.

[StrikeEagle]

I have an Ohaus lab scale... RCBS used to sell it. Just checked it against an older RCBS balance type scale and everything is good with the weights.

But... hmmmm... I'll try the Chrony in the morning when the light is different.

Thank you! I'll let you know.

StrikeEagle

[txgho1911]

One gave me some very sad #s and the next one (different owner) worked like a champ. Factory ammo in my 45 ran 810 to 883. The first one gave me readings from 501 to 580. Same batch of factory ammo. 5 shot groups. Rem Golden Sabor 230gr 45acp.
Maybe the crony is set up for meters per second or you are reading muzle blast.

[HMSHarley]

Hi there:
This is what I am reloading as well. I do believe that is your start load. Go look in your data and find out what your max load is and try that and see. That's all I can think of. Have you tried FMJHP? Have a good day
Harley

[loadedround]

Is your tapered crimp tight enough?
:o

[StrikeEagle]

Well... Yesterday was overcast and I tried again. This time I got 900-930ish. That's what I should get. I'll wait and Chrony one more time, I guess. Thank you for all of the good advice I got!

HMSHarley:BTW, 3.2 of Bullseye and a 95grn FMV is a max, as far as I know... where did you see a stiffer charge documented?

Thanks again!

StrikeEagle