.40 s&w 180gr fmj w/ hs6

[Bullseye25]

This Hornady 7th Edition shows 7.6 gr of HS-6 as the max load in this book for 180 gr.

The Hodgdon website has max load of 6.9gr. Which data should I go by??? I have a few loads that are loaded at 6.9 but I'm afraid they might be too hot. how hot are "max loads"???

 

[J_McLeod]

I've had the same problem with my XD40. I went as high as 8.1gr before backing down. Even then I don't know if was really overpressure, I just couldn't find the brass to check. I wouldn't sweat the 6.9gr loads, if you have a good pistol. I'd shoot them in mine. Lyman's data goes all the way up to 8.1 with a 1.115 OAL.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

That's a big difference alright.

When I have a problem like that i usually go with the bullet manufacturer first and then the powder manufacturer. The bullet maker usually does good tests on their own bullets and sometimes the powder maker is using a different bullet. (but of course not in this instance) I would shoot those 6.9gr loads without worries...

 

[Stormin.40]

I use 6.5gr of HS-6 behind a 180gr Lead RNFP bullet with an OAL of 1.120 and get 892fps out of a full size Beretta PX4 Storm.

As this is lead I don't know if it is very relevant to you will get slower velocities with plated or jacketed bullets, I would expect 6.9grains to be fine but am no expert. Maybe make up some 6.6 grain loads and test first checking for pressure signs.

 

[Bullseye25]

I ended making a bunch at 6.35 gr. and I did shoot the 6.9s. Felt very comparable to factory ammo. The 6.35s were a bit softer but still functioned great in my G24. Next batch I started is 6.5. Looking for a bit better accuracy than those 6.3s were giving me.

 

[Blue68f100]

Work up your load to find what your gun likes. Start at 6.5, 6.6, 6.7 .... all the way up to 7.5. make 10 each then look at the brass for any signs of over pressure. Once you find the load(s) that give you the best you can play with the OAL if you want to try to make it batter.

I have noticed that Hornady seams to push the XTP bullet hot, I guess for expansion. If your not using XTP use powder mfg suggestions.