Choosing a load based on targets.

Never seen this topic, so thought I’d throw it out there for fun. Was working up a TB load in my SA revolver and shot 10 shot groups this morning of 2.9 - 4.1 in .2 increments. All at 25 yards, unsupported, so I am a big variable. I believe a load should be chosen based on how I shoot it, not how my revolver shoots it off a bench, but that’s another topic. Anyway, here are the most promising loads. 3.7 on the left, 3.9 on the right.

Now the fun part. 3.7 has a tighter group. It’s 4.75”, and those 3 near the center are pretty exciting. The 3.9 load has a wider spread, nearing 6”, but it generally shoots more centered, and the elevation is a bit better, while I tend to shoot the 3.7 load low.

Based on these 2 targets, which load would you choose? 3.8? This is just a low level fun load to punch holes in cans and close range fun shooting, so I’m not going to file the sights for the 3.7 load. I’m working on a more stout load for long range/critter control.

Sorry about the paper tears, it’s time for a new backing board to hang my targets from.

Arkansas Paul said:

That doesn't make sense to me.
If you shoot two groups off the bench, the most accurate one will be the most accurate unsupported as well, if you have a consistent routine and keep things uniform with your technique.
If you shoot the less accurate one from the bench better unsupported, it is an accident.

Yes, we should do most of our practicing unsupported, I agree with that.
But benches are there for load development.

I know that's not the answer you're looking for.
But there is no way you can pick between those two groups knowing they're unsupported.

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I really don’t want this topic to hijack my intended topic, but I’ll try to explain my thoughts briefly. If someone’s handgun shoots a 1” group at 25 yards with a really hot load, and a 2” group with a milder load, one would assume they should pick the hot load. In many cases they’re right. But let’s say the shooter just can’t handle the hot load and it causes poor technique, so he shoots 8” groups with that load. Now let’s say he really enjoys the mild load and can handle it better and shoots 6” groups with it. Which load should he choose? I’ve seen this scenario. My father is a perfect example. I have loads that I know work well out of my revolvers, but he just can’t shoot them well due to muzzle blast, recoil, etc. He shoots a milder load much better out of them, but I know that load doesn’t technically shoot as well.

So my philosophy is to develop a load based on the way you’re going to shoot that load. My guns are tools, and they aren’t going to be called upon to shoot off a bench. Just my .02 cents, right or wrong.

Now rifles are a different story.

Texas10mm said:

Are some of those bullets keyholing?

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No, paper is just tearing because I am long over due for a new target backer board.

ATLDave said:

You cannot tell anything from those targets or method.

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Sure you can. You can tell I have plenty of room for improvement.