So in my search to find a more accurate load in my 9mm pistols, I tested some Lehigh bullets, the Xtreme Defense 90 grain versions. I started at the bottom of Lehigh load data for CFE Pistol and went up a few tenths, but I stopped below the max. I used a box of gold, aka CCI small pistol primers. I tested in 4 shot groups at 25 yards.
First the good news. These are indeed more accurate than the XTP bullets I’ve been using, but not by much. I have a load which printed a sub 2” group rested from 25 yards from my M&P9 and another under 3”. I don’t have a chronograph but I’m guessing somewhere around 1300 fps.
Now the bad news. From my Shield, things go the opposite direction. The best groups are at the minimum load while the M&P9 has the best at the highest load. So I guess I have a decision to make. Do I load specifically for the M&P9 or try to split the difference? Before doing either I have to confirm the best shooting group.
First the good news. These are indeed more accurate than the XTP bullets I’ve been using, but not by much. I have a load which printed a sub 2” group rested from 25 yards from my M&P9 and another under 3”. I don’t have a chronograph but I’m guessing somewhere around 1300 fps.
Now the bad news. From my Shield, things go the opposite direction. The best groups are at the minimum load while the M&P9 has the best at the highest load. So I guess I have a decision to make. Do I load specifically for the M&P9 or try to split the difference? Before doing either I have to confirm the best shooting group.