9mm and Winchester WST

[mds87]

Data is pretty much none. I have an older Hornady data book which shows some loads.

Anyone experimented with this combo. I usually am a Winchester 231 guy but with the limited powder choice where i'm located, and the amount of WST I have on hand figured I would reach out to any potential takers on the subject.

 

[gamestalker]

What bullet?

I have a pretty good amount of published data, get back with the specifics of the bullet and let me see what I can find. If nothing else, try calling the bullet or powder manufacturer's, they extremely helpful most times.

GS

 

[CZ9shooter]

WST is currently my preferred powder for cast 9mm bullets. But yes, virtually no published data. I compiled a bunch of internet info from various forums a while back and experimented from there. I ended up with nice shooting load. I don't remember my numbers exactly. I can check my notes this weekend if I remember.

 

[mstreddy]

MDS,
Which bullet is a good question. I'm a W231 fan as well, but got some WST during these crazy days. I found some old Winchester data, 1995 or 97 IIRC, for it. The Brian Enos forum has a lot of load suggestions, but mainly for the 124 and heavier bullets. I've loaded several thousand 124/125 gr plated and have around 1K lead 122-130 gr, as well.
I don't have my info with me, but I can post it tonight when I get home if you would like. Bear in mind, this is not currently published data and some folks will caution you to avoid it.
I've shot the loads out of my Glock 17, 19, 34, Beretta 92, and a few other 9mm pistols and carbines. No issues, worries or negative factors.
Oh, I'll add, I did call Hodgdon and one of the techs explained that when Winchester powders merged/combined with Hodgdon they were only contractually obligated to test a certain number of powders for a certain number of cartridges, which explains why there was no new data for WST in 9.

Oh, another thing, welcome to THR. One of the best firearms forums on the interwebs.

 

[mds87]

I use mostly xtreme 124hp due to the price and availability. I started experimenting with Hornady HAP in 115 with good results, and everyday plinking xtreme 115rn.

Mstreddy I would appreciate any data you have, and thank you for the welcome.

 

[NWcityguy2]

I have used WST for 9mm, shooting 125gr cast bullets. If you want to use it you will have to use unpublished load data of course. I got my starting point from Brian Enos forums as well. I started at 3.8 grains and worked up to 4.6 grains, at which point I stopped because I was getting good recoil and cycling of the action. No pressure signs.

As always, all safety precautions apply.

 

[mstreddy]

MDS
CAUTION: The following post includes loading data not currently published for this cartridge. USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. Neither the writer, The High Road, nor the staff of THR assume any liability for any damage or injury resulting from use of this information.
I tested WST 124/125 plated RMR and Berry's round nose, between 4.0 to 4.8 grains. They all worked well, with no overt signs of pressure. I settled on 4.4 and 4.5 grains to ensure cycling in all my autoloaders. Good cycling in my Glock 17, 19, 26, and 34, Beretta 92, and several other 9mm pistols. I've also shot them out of my Bushmaster AR in 9, MP5 clone, Beretta CX4 carbine, and Uzi, all with no issues. I loaded to a COAL of 1.15" and for primers I used Tula Small Pistol, Remington 6 1/2 (small rifle), CCI Small Rifle (would not work with striker fired), and Win Small Pistol.
I also loaded lead 122 gr Flat Nose and 130 gr Cone Flat Nose at the 4.5gr as well.
We just shot 300 of those tonight, no issues.
I actually liked the WST and have been pretty happy with it. I'm using it 38 Special, and 40 S&W as well. It's supposed to be pretty good in 45 ACP, but I haven't tried it yet. My only regret is that I only bought one 8# jug last year and I split that 8# with a buddy. He hasn't loaded anything with it yet, and I'm trying to get him to sell the 4#s back to me. I'm down to less than a pound.
It won't load everything W231 does, but it's pretty good in the above calibers.

Try it out, work it up and enjoy!
Eddy

 

[mds87]

Sweet! I'll try it out, and I have had excellent results with WST and 230gr .45 jacketed bullets. Enough to put the 231 aside permanently.

 

[TonyT]

I have never seen any pressure tested data provided by the manufacturer for WST in 9mm. I have used it in very mild 38 Super revolver loads (151 gr. Rainier at 800 fps). My impression is that it builds up pressure very rapidly as the charge increases .

 

[mstreddy]

I will have to look for it, I have an older Winchester manual that had WST listed for 9mm. On the pressure side, it's listed for use with 40 S&W which runs on similar pressures as 9.