Reload Data / Projectile Question

[gk3]

I'm preparing to reload some 180gr Missouri Bullet TCFPs (IDP #5 401180M). The powder I'm using is HP-38. It's easy to go to the Hodgdon site and get load data for HP-38, but I'm confused why they list load data for specific projectiles (Berry's, XTP, Speer, etc). Does it matter or is a 180gr bullet a 180gr bullet? For example, can I use HP-38 load data for Berry's 180gr for the Missouri #5s as a starting point? My 49th ed. Lyman manual surprisingly never lists HP-38 for anything that I'm doing.

The gun I'm shooting is a Glock 23 with a lone wolf barrel.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

For the most part you can use data for a bullet weight with other bullets of the same weight if they are the same type and profile.

Berry bullets are plated, XTP bullets are jacketed, and there are soft and cast lead bullets. Each will use slightly different charge weights. The slight differences in bearing surface is why the data is provided with a charge range. Start at the low end and work up to find the most accurate load without going over the max while looking for pressure signs. Do not go below the starting charge either.

Use lead data with lead bullets and jacketed bullet data with FMJ bullets.

 

[mdi]

While ArchAngel is correct, for a new reloader, it's best to K.I.S.S. and go by book loads. When a bit more experience is gained, and it won't be long, you'll see that different construction bullets will use different load data, and why...

 

[Reloadron]

Pictured below are two each of 230 grain JHP (Jacketed Hollow Point) bullets which share the same bullet diameter. The Speer Gold Dot is 0.020" greater in length than the Hornady XTP. Hornady suggest a C.O.L. of 1.210" while Speer suggest a C.O.L. of 1.200".



Worth noting here is that while both bullets pictured are 230 grain JHP bullets they do not share the same dimensions, close but not the same.

but I'm confused why they list load data for specific projectiles (Berry's, XTP, Speer, etc). Does it matter or is a 180gr bullet a 180gr bullet?

This is why it is not unusual to find different load data for bullets that are the same weight and close in their profile.

Ron

 

[ArchAngelCD]

While ArchAngel is correct, for a new reloader, it's best to K.I.S.S. and go by book loads. When a bit more experience is gained, and it won't be long, you'll see that different construction bullets will use different load data, and why...

Where did I say he shouldn't go by the book? I even warned against going below the starting charge weight.

 

[ljnowell]

While ArchAngel is correct, for a new reloader, it's best to K.I.S.S. and go by book loads. When a bit more experience is gained, and it won't be long, you'll see that different construction bullets will use different load data, and why...

You will find that it is impossible to "go by the book" to the extent that you are using the exact same bullet, powder, primer combo every time. ArchAngel simply advised that he start at the lowest starting charge and work up looking for accuracy without going about max.

That's sound advice.

 

[gk3]

Thanks for the info. I also found this helpful link.

http://www.hodgdonreloading.com/rel...a-do-i-use-when-my-specific-bullet-not-listed

 

[X-Ring]

My 49th ed. Lyman manual surprisingly never lists HP-38 for anything that I'm doing.

But they may list data for Winchester 231. W231 and HP-38 are the same powder sold under two different names. Same data for both.

 

[mdi]

Where did I say he shouldn't go by the book? I even warned against going below the starting charge weight.

Hmmm. I don't remember saying anything regarding your post except you were correct. You are assuming my addition was in conflict with your post.

Ease off, brother...

 

[Archie]

One reason for not blindly using 'weight' as a sole determiner of load data is some bullets are internally different than others. The internal structure will determine how much the bullet can be 'compressed' when engaged in the rifling.

Most of the time, sticking with starting loads will cover the differences. With cast bullets or swaged lead bullets (probably plated bullets as well), the internal structure is nearly always the same. With some jacketed bullets - most especially the 'dual core' types, the internal structure makes a great difference in how the bullet reacts to rifling and therefore, how the pressure curve differs.

Most of those 'special' bullets are for rifles and have printed warnings. I've noted a couple of handgun bullets with the same sort of warning in loading manuals.

In short, do some research and check out specific comments by the manufacturer.