safe starting load for Barnes XPB in 41 magnum?

[epijunkie67]

I picked up some of the new Barnes XPB bullets (http://www.barnesbullets.com/prodxpb-pistol.php) for my 41 magnum but there doesn't seem to be any load data for them. They are 180 grains which is lighter than most other bullets for this caliber and in theory you are supposed to be able to load them a bit hotter than regular rounds of the same weight. I don't want to load them hot but that should help give me a little more safety room.

My current pistol powders are Alliant 2400, Unique, and Bullseye. I thought I'd start with 17.0 grains of 2400 and 9.0 grains of Unique under the 180 grain XPB bullet using Winchester primers. I'll be shooting this out of a Marlin lever action rifle with ballard rifling in an octogonal barrel.

Since these loads are safe for use with a 200-210 grain round I figured they should be safe for the 180 grain XPB. Other suggestions or start with these?

 

[ChristopherG]

Absolutely, no question, call Barnes. I've heard good results from folks loading Barnes bullets using data straight from the horse's mouth, and no-one knows these interesting bullets like they do.

And when you do call Barnes, post your results, would you? I've been intrigued by these bullets in .41--just not quite a dollar-a-pop intrigued as yet!

 

[Kimber Pro Carry]

I just bought a box of the 180 grain bullets and intend to call Barnes next week. I will let you know what I find out.

 

[Kimber Pro Carry]

I spoke to Barnes today and the only load they have for the 180 gr. in .41 Remington Magnum is Hogdon H110 starting at 17.0 grains ending at 19.0 grains.