Reloading different auto calibers.

[ar10]

I got through the rifle stage without blowing myself up and now I'm starting on my handguns. I own three SAXD's, a 9mm, .40SW, and a .45GAP. I also shoot a lot of IDPA matches that have steel knock down plates. I have a couple of questions.

Prior to reloading I use the standard Winchester ammo for all three guns. When I used the .40 and .45 plates went down fine but the 9mm would sometimes hit the plates bounce off. So I'm looking for some possible options on bullets and powder. I'd like to use the same powder in all three guns and am wondering what is the best bullet to use for IDPA. I've seen a number of different types of bullets available but am not sure which ones would be the best.

 

[ants]

The best bullet is the affordable one that feeds through your pistol the best. Try several different types until you find the ones that load easily in your press and feed reliably through your pistols. And hopefully it's easy on the wallet. Many folks are loading cast lead bullets these days, given the high cost of fmj, hollow point, and copper plated. Lead bullets work just fine for IDPA if that's what you want to shoot.

To knock down poppers and plates, make sure your load meets minimum power factor for IDPA. The plates should be calibrated for minimum PF, so if your load shoots minimum PF it should knock them down. It is MUCH easier to meet power factor with heavier bullets, but don't go overboard. Any 124g in 9mm, 180g in 40S&W, and 200g or 230g in 45acp will do just fine.

 

[btefft]

Try Berry's plated bullets. I like them.

I load .380, 9 mm, 40 SW, 44 Mag, 45 ACP, and 45/70 Gov't,

Hack