oneounceload said this:
I have never seen an owner's manual from a reputable manufacturer state that any number of rounds are required for a break-in.
Where is this posted please?
I have been told by some manufacturers, when informed of malfunctions with new guns, that they would recommend firing several hundred rounds before considering that the gun has a problem. (Kimber and Kahr say that a break-in period is advisable with their guns that don't run properly from the get go).
Though I believe that if a firearm is manufactured as it SHOULD be, that a "break-in" process should not be necessary to have reliable functioning with SAMMI loads! It goes without saying, but I'll say it anyway... some new firearms DO need a bit of break in before they settle down and become reliable. It
shouldn't be this way, but it is with some guns.
The practice of firing heavier, rather than light loads, initially... has nothing to do with manufacturer's recommendation. Who said it did?
The concept of shooting heavier, rather than the lightest possible loads, in a new semi-auto firearm derives from a common sense, practical viewpoint. Regardless of the manufacturer, some guns are a little rougher than one might wish for in the finishing of mating parts. This can lead to a malfunction with very light loads. Shooting heavier, rather than lighter, loads for a brief period can get things settled in a little quicker. I've seen this with a variety of semi-auto pistols as well as with semi-auto shotguns. Isn't always needed, but sometimes this helps, and this simple effort can make a difference WITH GUNS THAT MAY NEED IT.. and it doesn't hurt a thing to do so. It helps the owner get to know the firearm better, with loads of varying potency.
No one says that YOU NEED to follow this practice. You do what you think is best for yourself! Especially if you think you know better than anyone else.
Personally, I like to do this practice with a new semi-auto firearm. Whether you choose to do it or not is purely your decision. Whether you do it or don't, like the idea or don't, is all just fine with me, nor do you have to justify to me what you feel is best. Enjoy shooting!