1st Time reloader with question

[Walkalong]

Powder measures do not grind granules against each other, but they will cut the odd one or two here or there. The point being it is a volumetric measuring device that we assign weights to.

Dippers are just fine, as I have posted, and just like a measure, can be very consistent when used with care. The limiting factor to both are powder shape/size and the operator.

 

[platypusfriend]

Powder Dipper Consistency

With every dipper-powder-user combination, you'll find a "grains of powder" value that will give you the most consistency.

For me, with the Lee 0.5cc dipper, and AA#7, it is 7.3gr.

 

[RussellC]

First attempts...

OK, at first I had an issue with the bullet seating die, (Lee) one set of instructions (with the press, also Lee) the other with the dies were not consistent. One said to back it out 1 turn, the other 3 turns. 1 turn crunched a weird neckdown thing on top of the case, and mashed that shape into the lead buttet of another. 3 turns out, and everything is perfect.

Started using new Winchester brass, Winchester SPP, and Berry's Bullets 115 grain plated RN. Powder in HP-38. I loaded 5 rounds at 4.3 grains, 5 at 4.5 grains and 5 at 4.7 grains. All were at 1.125 OAL. All functioned through the pistol (Glock 17) without incident, with the 4.3 feeling a little soft.

Armed with this info, I loaded 100 at 4.7 grains. All looks fine. Thanks to everyone here!

Russellc

 

[Henry45]

You can get some decent digital calipers at Harbor Freight. For like 9.99. I have a set for a back up and they are as accurate as my Fowler's..

 

[Kuyong_Chuin]

Okay this is probably a stupid question, and I know "There are not stupid questions just stupid answers" before someone says it. Can a 40 S&W brass be loaded with a 40 cal lead round ball and used in a semi auto pistol? Reason I am asking is I found some Hornady Lead Round Ball - .40 Caliber .395" dia. 100/box for $8.79 and I thought if it would work it could make for some cheap target ammo.

 

[LiveLife]

Lead Round Ball - .40 Caliber .395" dia. 100/box for $8.79

I wouldn't recommend it. You'll have poor seal with the barrel and massive gas leakage around the bullet to generate any consistent chamber pressures, not to mention heavy leading of your barrel.

At $8.79/100, that's $87.90/1000!

Instead, how about 155 gr X-Treme RNFP plated bullets for $107/1000 shipped? - http://www.tjconevera.com/x1015rnplbu1.html

 

[Kuyong_Chuin]

I wouldn't recommend it. You'll have poor seal with the barrel and massive gas leakage around the bullet to generate any consistent chamber pressures, not to mention heavy leading of your barrel.

At $8.79/100, that's $87.90/1000!

Instead, how about 155 gr X-Treme RNFP plated bullets for $107/1000 shipped? - http://www.tjconevera.com/x1015rnplbu1.html

Thanks I figured it wouldn't work but didn't hurt to ask. 155 grain plinking bullets would be great since that is the same grain as my Hollow Points. Thanks