The Caldwell is a nice chrono but I first purchased this one - it has a Bluetooth connection to a very nice app which helps when dealing with a lot of test load data:
https://www.opticsplanet.com/competition-electronics-prochrono-dlx-with-bluetooth.html
First I'll state that I don't believe in carrying reloaded defensive ammo...but that isn't the question.
I've found the LNL powder measure to be very accurate when paired with the Powder Cop die, with just a few simple processes in place. Make sure that the Powder Insert goes all the way to the top of the track, maybe 1/16" short, in the powder measure body when a case is inserted.
Set the O-ring so that it is flush with the top of the die when the charge is correct. Don't reset the Powder Cop on the same charge repeatedly...it compacts the powder. If a charge going through the die isn't quite flush, dump the charge back into the hopper and charge the case again...it doesn't happen that often and is usually a result of inconsistent handle operation
Yikes!! That’s quite a variation! Any idea if the powder was bridging, or sticking somehow else? Mine has been spot on to the 10th of a grain so far, so that’s kind of concerning. Also, are you running the standard metering insert for pistol, or the micrometer? I tried the micrometer insert and it does not fit the rotor tight enough for the fine grains. With that at least I had charges varying probably 3-4 tenths if a grain, so I swapped it back to the regular pistol insert and problem solved. Not saying that’s what it is, just something worth checking into. Other thing could be static cling to the foot on the powder cop, but I highly doubt it’d be that much...I was running from just over min to over max. I pulled them all and hand weighed from that point on.
yep, Sierra lists the projectile and specs directly in their load data, which is helpful for sure, and AA#7 is one of the best powders they list as far as obtaining decent velocity and not pushing dangerous pressure limits. (If using the Sierra app, you can see a velocity value, controlled by a slider bar. As you move the slider up to increase velocity, many of the other powders drop off at a lower max velocity because of chamber pressure. I will try to show some photos to explain, with min and max loads shown)
View attachment 975545 View attachment 975546
You are correct. I was aware of that, but thanks for pointing it out!Please be aware that the data you are referencing is +P data, and not standard 9mm.
chris
Yikes!! That’s quite a variation! Any idea if the powder was bridging, or sticking somehow else? Mine has been spot on to the 10th of a grain so far, so that’s kind of concerning. Also, are you running the standard metering insert for pistol, or the micrometer? I tried the micrometer insert and it does not fit the rotor tight enough for the fine grains. With that at least I had charges varying probably 3-4 tenths if a grain, so I swapped it back to the regular pistol insert and problem solved. Not saying that’s what it is, just something worth checking into. Other thing could be static cling to the foot on the powder cop, but I highly doubt it’d be that much...
Also thanks for posting the info! It helps to show the burn rate comparisons well.
A lot of the errors are speed related, I suspect, or maybe a stroke that's a little off. Small errors really mount up with fine grain powders especially fast burn, fine grain. Note that I I tear down the LNL powder drop and clean on a regular basis and have had no bridging issues.
No, no sticking on the powder cops feet. Again, fine grain powder errors are, well, fine. They are hard to pick up with the o-ring in my opinion.
Slower burn powders like AA #7'are probably smarter to use with any progressive unless you need the faster combustion.
Yes, correct insert, etc for pistol. BTW, I buy extra LNL powder drop bottom assemblies for various needs, label them and masking tape the correct insert in the tube.
The point remains that for critical ammo, either hand weigh (or dip for the volume vs weight users) and recheck often. You asked for advice and that's mine.
definitely understand, and I meant no offense in all the questions, just curious.
I’m offended that you have not bought a chron yet! yes get the cheap one because you will shoot it... eventuallydefinitely understand, and I meant no offense in all the questions, just curious.
+P is were I like to stay! warm and exciting25 rounds per ladder gradation sounds like a waste of resources to me, especially if not using a chrono. I would start at 5 on the lower ends and get up to 10 when getting close to the limit.
Also, I once loaded 9mm with AA#7 before I got a chronograph. I picked a mid-range amount between the minimum and maximum for the same grain bullet (not the exact same type), used the suggested OAL, and called it good. After I got a chronograph, I learned that the load was hitting +P velocity, which is way beyond what the reloading book said. Now, I would not dream of loading without a chronograph.
I’m offended that you have not bought a chron yet
Now, I would not dream of loading without a chronograph.
YES! buy chron like you buy components
I could use some of the proceeds from that to get a chrono
For short barrel 9x19 I have had good result with BE-86 and 124gr bullets.
First I'll state that I don't believe in carrying reloaded defensive ammo...but that isn't the question.
my end goal is Power Factor of the Ammo I’m loading. as for handloading for defensive, why not??? you customize the ammo to the firearm, marriage made in heavenA chrono is almost essential when working up a load, particularly if you are trying to duplicate a factory load. Velocity is not the End All in reloading, but it's a key piece of the puzzle, and one of the best ways of telling you what is going on.
...and that is a prime example of why a chronograph is a good idea. I've used BE-86 for loads in my Kahr pistols, 3.6" and 3.1" barrels. I found, with BE-86, I hit a velocity threshold where more powder did not equate to any higher velocity... I would never have found that without a chronograph.
I agree... but, yet, here we are. I just loaded up some Speer GoldDots for SD use, when my last box of Remington is used up.
I can understand that.I agree... but, yet, here we are. I just loaded up some Speer GoldDots for SD use, when my last box of Remington is used up.
my end goal is Power Factor of the Ammo I’m loading. as for handloading for defensive, why not??? you customize the ammo to the firearm, marriage made in heaven
I read it, I still will carry my load and have an attorney on forever retainer.http://www.thehighroad.org/index.ph...f-handloads-in-self-defense-shootings.821474/
I don't doubt that the ammo we build is effective, but Spats McGee makes some interesting points. Take the time to read and make your own decision.
...and that is a prime example of why a chronograph is a good idea. I've used BE-86 for loads in my Kahr pistols, 3.6" and 3.1" barrels. I found, with BE-86, I hit a velocity threshold where more powder did not equate to any higher velocity... I would never have found that without a chronograph.
And you have your answer.Factory V-CROWN’s are around 1.065”,