9mm oal?

[tonytor58]

Hi guys just made my first 5 bullets not after som trial an error. I was using the lyman 49th as a guide. They are 9mm hsm custom bullets 124 gr plated round nose I started with 4.8 grns of unique a nd a oal of 1.125 does this seem about right the lyman only gives values for 124g hp and 125g lead. Any info appreciated I am a little gittery due to thes being my first loads. Thanks.

 

[NWcityguy2]

1.125 should be fine if it feeds in your gun. If you have to choose an OAL between different bullets, look for the one with the similar nose profile, like a round nose bullet over a hollow point or a flat nose.

The best advice given about OAL is out of Accurate's manual,

SPECIAL NOTE ON CARTRIDGE OVERALL LENGTH “COL”

It is important to note that the SAAMI “COL” values are for the firearms and ammunition manufacturers industry and must be seen as a guideline only.

The individual reloader is free to adjust this dimension to suit their particular firearm-component-weapon combination. This parameter is determined by various dimensions such as
1) magazine length (space)
2) freebore-lead dimensions of the barrel
3) ogive or profile of the projectile and
4) position of cannelure or crimp groove.

 

[Mike 27]

Pull the barrel and plunk test the round into the chamber. It should fall in and out with no restriction.

 

[Walkalong]

I usually load 115 and 124/5 Gr round nose bullets at 1.130 to 1.135 in 9MM, but 1.125 should be just fine.

 

[tonytor58]

I checked the chamber and they fell in and fell out without getting stuck, also loaded them in to the mag with no issues. Walkalong whats the purpose of your numbers is it a preferance? Also will it be any better to bring them out longer? What would ne a max?

 

[jwrowland77]

Just have to go with what fits your gun. I use 1.150 in mine, and it feeds reliably and fits magazines great...but that's for my pistol.

 

[Walkalong]

Walkalong whats the purpose of your numbers

After a few trial and errors I ended up there long ago. It works well for me. I load the Berrys 124 Gr HBRN-TP at 1.140 to 1.145. It has more bearing surface and was giving more pressure. That OAL feeds well with it and it shoots great in my guns.

 

[rfwobbly]

The bullet-to-barrel fit sets the maximum OAL. The load recipe sets the minimum OAL. Some where between the max and min you'll discover an OAL that shoots well and feeds correctly. That's the OAL you should be using.

Each barrel is different. Each bullet is different. Each load recipe is different.

It's going to take some work on your part to discover the right OAL.