reloading data

[fatty]

Just bought my first auto loader Ruger P95 9 mm. Looking to reload some 9mm and was wondering where do you find loading data for the off brand bullets like Rainer ,Missouri Bullets ,etc? They are so much cheaper than The name brand ones. Thanks

 

[Ifishsum]

Sometimes the bullet mfgr will have load information on their web site, seems like at least one of the plated bullet companies does anyway. I don't shoot a lot of plated bullets myself but I think most guys start with data for a cast bullet of the same weight, maybe working up to somewhere between cast and jacketed.

Most reloading books like Lyman or Lee, and the ones published by the powder manufacturers will include load data based on bullet weight and composition (cast or jacketed) rather than brand name. Of course if you buy a Hornady, Nosler or Sierra book, it's going to focus on their bullets.

 

[noylj]

The key is to start with the starting loads.
Look for a bullet of similar weight, construction and shape. Start with the starting load.
If you can't find information on your particular weight, use the data for the next heavier bullet.
Just remember, the starting load is your friend.

 

[Steve C]

Get your data by the type of bullet, IE. Missouri bullets are cast lead so use data for lead bullets of the appropriate hardness. If loading "target" or softer bullets use data from Speer or Hornady bullets or lower end on Lyman data. If loading hard bullets use data found for general cast bullets. Plated bullet companies generally suggest useing lead bullet data for their bullets. In general lead bullets use lighter loads than jacketed bullets.

 

[fatty]

Thanks all

 

[LiveLife]

I try to use the most current published load data for jacketed/lead bullets, often right from powder manufactures' websites or latest powder load data booklets.

If I can't find the lead/plated load data for a particular bullet weight/nose profile, I use 10%-15% reduced jacketed starting load data and work up from there in 0.2-0.3 grain increments to identify the load that produces the most accurate shot groups that reliably cycles the slide of the pistol with the stiffest recoil spring I have. Generally, leading will decrease as you approach mid-high range of load data, with some exceptions.

 

[lwknight]

Typically , your lead or plated bullets will shoot harder than jacketed bullets. It will cycle the gun harder but will not have higher chamber pressures.
About a 10-15% reduction in charge should keep you near what you are used to from jacketed bullets.