jr_roosa
Member
I just loaded up some test loads for my S&W combat magnum, 4" barrel.
I'm using federal small magnum pistol match primers (all that were available a few months ago when I picked them up), Hornady 125gr HP/XTP, winchester brass, and Vihta Vuori N-110 powder.
Hornady has the max load as 16.1 gr and 1500fps.
The VV manual has a start load of 16.8gr at 1601fps and a max load of 18.4 at 1772 fps.
I loaded a series that covers the range, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, and 1700fps. The last one is about half a grain short of the VV max load.
Does this sound outside the realm of reason? I'm surprised to see that the Hornady guide stops short of the starting load from the powder manufacturer. VV states their data are based on actul pressure measurement. I wonder what Hornady uses.
The final load isn't going to be the regular food for this revolver since I know it's not designed for 24/7 use of magnum loads. I usually shoot .38 special wadcutters at 600fps or so. I'm just looking for a high powered round for out in the woods or around the house.
-J.
I'm using federal small magnum pistol match primers (all that were available a few months ago when I picked them up), Hornady 125gr HP/XTP, winchester brass, and Vihta Vuori N-110 powder.
Hornady has the max load as 16.1 gr and 1500fps.
The VV manual has a start load of 16.8gr at 1601fps and a max load of 18.4 at 1772 fps.
I loaded a series that covers the range, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, and 1700fps. The last one is about half a grain short of the VV max load.
Does this sound outside the realm of reason? I'm surprised to see that the Hornady guide stops short of the starting load from the powder manufacturer. VV states their data are based on actul pressure measurement. I wonder what Hornady uses.
The final load isn't going to be the regular food for this revolver since I know it's not designed for 24/7 use of magnum loads. I usually shoot .38 special wadcutters at 600fps or so. I'm just looking for a high powered round for out in the woods or around the house.
-J.