Converting target ammunition

packetloss said:

There is a LOT more that goes into a SD HP round than just being a hollow point.

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Of course there is. But this thread is more about “Necessity is the mother of invention”.

I think it is just a poor idea. Factory whatever loads are probably more reliable than messed with loads. How often do you shoot somebody anyway? Carry the FMJ until you can purchase the loads you want or the components to load them.

There goes the neck tension too. Forget it.

Not worth the effort to me. If **** ever hits the fan FMJ will have to do after I run out of SD ammo

If I wanted some hp ammo I would try it.
The only difference from normal reloading is the unknown powder.
If you can keep the bullet base same depth and the round will plunk in your barrel go for it.
Watch neck tension, chamber some rounds a few times and make sure they do not set back.

Of course your risk tolerance may differ from mine.
I have been known to convert berdan brass to boxer and reload steel and aluminum cases.

ballman6711 said:

but I wouldn't do it unless it was a serious SHTF situation, like zombies or something equally serious.

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I'll repeat what I said, things would have to be VERY serious before I would attempt this for SD ammo.

Ammo used for self defense needs to stop a threat and nothing more. Larger holes may stop the threat sooner, but so will more holes. FMJ has worked for years, and will probably work for a while longer.

If you want to experiment and see if it can be done, then have fun and be as safe as you can. Lots of good info for a starting point has been given already.

Best of luck with it!

chris