Specific Data

[lpsharp88]

So, through a friend of a friend, I have happened into some free bullets to try out when reloading. I am being sent some 124gr RN 9mm and some 180gr FP for .40/10mm, both of which are lead. The only problem is that I don't have any data for either one of those in any of my books (Hornady 9th, Lyman 49th, Lee 2nd, and a Load Books for 10mm). I also referenced HodgdonReloading.com, no dice for my specific bullets.

I do have data for some bullets which are close. I have 125gr lead 9mm data. I seem to remember learning that it's ok to use the next heavier data, just start at the minimum and work up. Is that right?

For the 10mm, it's something completely different. I have data for 180gr jacketed and jacketed FP, 175gr LSWC, 175gr lead with Lyman mold #401043, and 180gr LSWC from Hornady (#10808).

So my questions are: is it safe to use 125gr data for 124gr bullets, just start at the minimum and work up? And, is it safe to use any of my 10mm data listed for what I am going to get in the mail? My initial thought is the Hornady lead data would be my best bet, but what has me spooked is the profile isn't the same.

Not sure if this is important, but I'd prefer to use 700X or TiteGroup. I have plenty of those two powders.

 

[Sunray]

"...safe to use 125gr data for 124gr bullets..." Yep. One grain won't make any difference. Neither will using 180 grain data for a 175 or 175 for a 180.
You do not need manufacturer or bullet shape specific data either. Loading is done by the weight and cast or jacketed only.
There's 9mm cast 125 grain 700-X and TiteGroup data on Hodgdon's site. 'LCN' there means Lead Conical Nose. Same as a Truncated Cone. Been using cast 121 grain TC's with Bullseye for eons. Anyway, that data will do nicely.
No 10 mm cast data at Hodgdon for either powder. Usually just means that particular powder wasn't tested. Your Hornady data will be fine though.

 

[Jim Watson]

Only the best bullets are held to within one grain, a lot of the cheap stuff may not be within five grains. Unless you are loading to the absolute maximum, small differences in weight make no significant difference. Nose shape does not affect anything unless it forces you to substantially different seating depth.

What you should be careful of is fast burning powders like 700X and Titegroup in high pressure cartridges like 9 and 10mm. It can be done, but you will not get top velocities with safe loads.

 

[lpsharp88]

Thank you both for the advice. I'll use the 125gr lead data and start at the minimum for 9mm and use the 180gr SWC data and start at the minimum for the 10mm as well. I don't intend these to be max velocity rounds, just some range plinkers for fun. I honestly don't even know how many of each are being sent my way, and I may not get more if I don't like how they compare to what I already have on hand.