Otbc Load Manual

Reloading Manual
F I R S T E D I T I O N
Shoot the Silver Bullet
from the Company
that Wrote the Book
on Accuracy.
ULLET
B
O REGON T RAIL
C
O
M PA N
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contains silver
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Reloading Manual
F I R S T E D I T I O N
ULLET
B
O REGON T RAIL
C
Y
O
M PA N
Oregon Trail Bullet Company,

a dba of Flexible Mining Co.
P.O. Box 529 • Baker City, OR 97814-0529

1-800-811-0548 • Fax: 541-523-1803
www.laser-cast.com
© Copyright Flexible Mining Company, 1998

all rights reserved
Table of Contents
From the Author . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Chapter 1: Reloading 101

Why We Reload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
44 Special Pistol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Reloading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
44 Magnum Pistol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Glossary of Terms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
45 ACP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Properties of Black and Smokeless Powder . . . . . 13
45 Auto Rim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Primers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
45 Schofield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Brass Casings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
45 Colt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Bullets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
45 Colt for Ruger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
What Makes These Things So Accurate? . . . . . . . 32
Understanding Bullet Obturation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Bullet Fit in Revolvers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Chapter 3: Rifle Loading Data
30 M1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Loading Procedures and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
30-30 Winchester. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
32-20 Rifle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Chapter 2: Handgun Loading Data .357 Magnum Rifle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
32 H&R Magnum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
38-55 Winchester. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
32-20 Pistol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
38-40 Rifle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
9x19 (9mm Luger) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
.41 Magnum Rifle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
9x21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
44-40 Rifle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
9mm Largo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
44 Special Rifle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
9x23 Winchester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
44 Magnum Rifle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
38 ACP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
444 Marlin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
38 Super Auto + P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
45 Colt Rifle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
38 S&W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
45-70 Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
38 Special Pistol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
.357 Magnum Pistol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
38-40 Pistol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Chapter 4: Loading for the Competitor
So, You Wanna Be a Cowboy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
.40 S&W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
NRA Action Pistol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
.40 S&W
Long-Loaded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Steel Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
10mm Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 IPSC/USPSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
.41 Magnum Pistol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Police Pistol Combat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
44-40 Pistol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Handgun Metallic Silhouette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
44 Russian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Cowboy Action Shooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
It is expressly and strictly the hand-
loader’s responsibility to know their
firearms, reloading equipment,
components, procedures and safe-
ty practices. Oregon Trail Bullet
Company has no control over indi-
vidual reloading practices, reload-
ing components or the quality of
the firearms in which the resulting
ammunition will be used, and as
such, assumes NO liability for
mishaps of any kind resulting from
the use or misuse of the reloading
data presented in these pages.
Every attempt has been made to
be sure that this load manual is
accurate; however, it is the respon-
sibility of the reloader to verify all
loads against manufacturers’ speci-
fications and guidelines.
From the Author
T he creation of the Laser-Cast Reloading Manual proved to be no triv-

ial undertaking, bending as it did its principal authors to the task
for over a year while co-opting the talents of many other contributors.
Properly recognizing and thanking them all is no less difficult as this
manual would not have been possible without the efforts of all who
helped. Still, I will take a shot at it, however inadequate the results.
Foremost among many, my co-author Gayl Morse; his patient intel-

lect, unwavering focus and relaxed perspective brought forth the best
from the rest of us. Given a task worthy of Sysiphus, Gayl prevailed
with his undefeatable armor of perfectionism alloyed with great gen-
erosity of spirit. He is simply of the highest order of men.
The loading and range testing of 38 various calibers demanded the

coordination of quite a collection of guns and equipment, all bor-
rowed. With his connections, old friend Gary Morgan took on his role
of gun pimp with great relish, prostituting us out shamelessly to our
associates to obtain the test guns we required. We are also no less
indebted to Gary for some of the excellent cartridge descriptions
found herein as well as his excellent internet background research.
The monumental work of initial data entry and text formatting called
for the ministrations of a true computer geek. Doomed by his well-
known genius with the keypad, Steve McCormick was drafted. Our
fellow USPSA shooter and master programmer came in just as we
were satisfied we didn’t know what the hell we were doing and saved
us from ourselves. His basic data presentation design was used in this
manual, transforming a process that resembled the decoding of the
1
“message of 13 parts” into a sleek and efficient system. Without
Steve’s work, the book would still have been finished — years later.
Still, the huge piles of somewhat-organized data sheets, cartridge

descriptions, articles and chapter groups we ended up with were with-
out value as a reloaders’ resource. Making this stuff live and breathe
was left to the creative talent of Amy Siedenstrang of Boone Graphics.
Amy attacked the formatting and publishing of our manual with
cheerful patience. Her quick grasp of difficult, unfamiliar material was
key to the successful publishing of the attractively functional, accessi-
ble book you hold before you. Every page bears her creative touch.
Again, many other individuals and companies contributed to this

manual. We thank all for their generous support:
Bill Anderson Bob Hull

Greg & Cristina, GMDR Lee Precision, Inc.
“Bounty Hunter” Scott Anderson, Walt Mansell
BAR H Productions
Guy Neill, Blount, Inc.
Walt Burres
Robert Schrag
Mike Dalton
Irving Stone III, Bar-Sto Precision
Mike Detty
Starline, Inc.
Dillon Precision, Inc.
Robert Venkus
Entréprise Arms, Inc.
Mike Venturino
Bill Falin, Accurate Co.
Bill Williams
Mickey Fowler
Chuck & Julie,
J.B. Hodgdon, Hodgdon Powder Oregon Trail Bullet Company,
Company to whom we are deeply grateful
Finally, the author must thank his most loyal supporter and the font
of his inspiration, his beloved wife Beki. All things are possible for a
common man loved by a great woman.
Shoot well, be safe, and have fun.

See you on the range.
Bruce Gray, 1998
2
Foreword
IT’S ALL ABOUT SHOOTING
I shot a gun for the first time over 10 years ago and it wasn’t to
learn how to defend myself. It was to see how fast I can punch
the tightest 6-shot group on a paper target. Like most American gun-
owners nationwide, the guns I use today are sporting firearms. It is a
passion I share with my friend Bruce Gray and millions of other
recreational shooters across the country.
When Bruce asked me to write an introduction for the Oregon Trail

Bullet Company’s reloading manual that he was authoring, I immedi-
ately agreed because I’ve seen good results from the cast lead prod-
ucts that the Oregon Trail Bullet Company manufactures. I also knew
that Bruce Gray’s expertise would be beneficial to the vast number of
recreation shooters across the country.
Bruce is a true grandmaster shooter who has been involved in the

competition shooting sports for over 20 years. He is also one of the
country’s most intelligent gunsmiths. To him, a micro-second
improvement in his competition run-times or a fraction-of-an-inch
reduction in his target shot groups is a major deal because it can
spell the difference between winning and losing. As a result, he con-
stantly pushes the envelope of speed, accuracy, technique, equip-
ment and ammunition. It is a practice he shares with millions of
other recreational shooters who over the years have been the con-
sumer backbone of the American firearms industry.
Today’s firearms industry contributes over $30 billion to our country’s

gross national product (GNP) every year. This amount is over six times
bigger than the $5 billion that the much-hyped and highly visible enter-
3
tainment industry has been contributing to the national economy each
year. Being a major economic performer is a role the industry has tra-
ditionally played in the American economy since the 1800s when, sin-
gle-handedly, it fueled America’s first industrial revolution.
Within the firearms industry, the sports and recreation market con-
tinues to loom as the single biggest user base, accounting for 99.89%
of the approximately 5.4 billion rounds of ammunition fired in the
United States each year. Sports and recreation shooters continue to
be the primary users of gun products, ammunition, accessories and
services in our country.
It is this overwhelming consumer base that Bruce Gray and myself

remain to be a part of, the same group of gun-owners that I feel will
benefit most from Oregon Trail Bullet Company’s new book on reload-
ing data. This demographic group is also the most potent tool we have
today to exact political change for gun owners in America today.
We must always keep in mind that political correctness changes with

the winds of the times. What was politically correct decades ago can
become politically correct today. Cigars are politically correct once
again in 1998 and the walls of the once-revered racial quotas in our
schools and other public services are being torn down in favor of per-
formance and excellence.
Changes can and do happen. All it takes is a little dynamism among

the constituent base most affected by the changes. To turn the anti-
gun tide around, the first step is for gun-owners to go out to the
range more often and in bigger numbers because in the end, the big-
ger and louder economic base always prevails.
Gun-owners effect political change with every shot they fire at the
shooting range. We can turn the cultural and political tide in favor of
American gun-ownership. But it will not happen if our shooting
ranges remain to be silent.
Wally Arida
Publisher, GunGames Magazine
4
Chapter 1
Reloading 101
Everything you always wanted

to know about cartridge components
and safe ammunition assembly*
*but thought you already knew

6
Why We Reload
D epending upon the type of shooting you enjoy and the level of
competition (if any) to which you aspire, reloading may be the
only way to achieve one or more of your primary objectives. Sure, you
can purchase factory ammunition or purchase reloads at the local gun
show, but in either case, they’re expensive and an unknown quality.
Given a limited shooting budget, reloading is the only way we can

maximize the number of rounds we put downrange without clipping
into the household budget, getting a second job, or sacrificing our
marriage. It’s also a way to save for that new custom gun or custom
work on our current gun. In short, it saves a great deal of money —
many reloaders however, find economy a secondary benefit to accu-
racy, reliability, and a consistent competitive power factor.
More than anything else, though, we enjoy reloading. It gives us con-

trol of one critical element of our shooting. We control the selection
of powder, primer, brass and bullet. We determine the overall length
of the cartridge and the type and amount of crimp — all of these ele-
ments tailored to our own gun, barrel and magazine.
If we put the same diligence in our selection of firearm, practice drills,

and our mental and physical preparation for shooting events, we are
limited only by our aspirations and our natural hand-eye coordination.
— Gayl Morse
7
Chapter 1:
✚ Reloading 101
I n presenting this manual, your safety is our paramount concern.

RELOADING
Our objective is to provide the information you need to load excel-

lent ammunition safely, and help you avoid new shooting “handles”
such as Pinkie, One-eye, Stumpy, Three-fingered Jack, etc. Your objec-
tive is to build the highest quality ammunition in the most efficient
manner possible with safety always the highest consideration. Just as
quality is a function of rigorous attention to detail, your safety is also
dependent upon strict adherence to correct habits and proper reload-
ing procedures. Proper storage and handling of powder and primers
is central to safe reloading. (See do’s and dont’s for powder and
primers and loading procedures in this chapter.) In general, the fol-
lowing rules and precautions must be observed every time you reload
or handle components to minimize the risk of injury or lead exposure
and insure quality results.
8 DO NOT EXCEED MAXIMUM LOADS NEVER REDUCE STATED OVERALL LENGTHS
• ALWAYS wear eye protection.
• NEVER load or reload when fatigued, distracted or under

the influence of any medication, drug or
alcohol.
• ELIMINATE potential sources of ignition, such as heaters, ✚

electrical connections, and tobacco. (HEAT, SPARK, and
FLAME)
• ALWAYS work in good lighting conditions and visually

check each operation. If you don’t see it, don’t trust it.
• Use your equipment in accordance with the manufacturers
RELOADING
instructions. Always seek knowledgeable assistance when
you encounter problems or obtain unexpected results. AN
“EDUCATED GUESS” IS A HAZARDOUS DISPLAY OF
IGNORANCE!
• ALWAYS wash your hands after you handle components

and NEVER eat or drink while reloading.
• THINK AHEAD! Plan your operations and anticipate

potential problems before they occur.
• Keep powder, primers, and loaded ammunition OUT OF

THE REACH of children and unauthorized adults.
• DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM LOADS listed in this

or any other reloading manual. To do so could be extreme-
ly dangerous . Always cross check loading data provided by
friends and fellow shooters with data provided by the
manufacturer of the powder. If in doubt, don’t use it, or
call the manufacturer and seek their advice.
• MAINTAIN A PROPER FIRE EXTINGUISHER at the door

of your reloading room or near your reloading area.
• TAKE YOUR TIME, PAY ATTENTION AND WORK CARE-

FULLY. REMEMBER, SAFE PROCEDURES INSURE
QUALITY RESULTS!
DO NOT EXCEED MAXIMUM LOADS NEVER REDUCE STATED OVERALL LENGTHS 9
? Glossary of Terms
ASPECT VARIATION: The effect lands in a rifled barrel.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS
of powder location within the

BULLET ENERGY: The kinetic
case on velocity and pressure;
energy of a bullet expressed in
aspect variation is a significant
foot-pounds at a given velocity.
factor in the performance of
Formula: ((Velocity in F.P.S. /
lower density loadings, particu-
7000) / 64.32) x Bullet weight in
larly in large volume cases like
grains.
.44-40 or .45 Long Colt.
BURN RATE: The relative speed
BALLISTICS - Internal: Behavior
at which a given propellant
of the cartridge components
burns when contained; burn
within the firearm from ignition
rates increase with load density
to exit. External: Behavior of
and pressure, and may vary with
bullet as influenced by gravity
temperature.
and atmospheric conditions dur-
ing flight. Terminal: The work CANNELURE: A shallow groove
performed by the bullet on the rolled into a case to form a rear-
target. ward seat for the bullet some-
times seen on auto pistol car-
BALLISTIC COEFFICIENT: A
tridges to prevent bullet move-
comparative measurement of
ment from feeding or recoil.
the ballistic efficiency of a bullet,
used to calculate its trajectory. CAPACITY (CASE) - Seated:
Volume available for powder
BELL: The tapered expansion of
with the bullet seated in the
the case mouth to ease bullet
case. Case Capacity: Total vol-
seating.
ume of the case to the mouth,
BORE DIAMETER: Diameter cir- usually measured in grains of
cumscribed by the tops of all water for comparison purposes.
CASE GAUGE: A try chamber of bullet diameter to groove
used to determine proper length, diameter of firearm.
sizing and/or seating of reloaded
GROOVE DIAMETER: The mea-
cartridges.
surement of a barrel across oppo-
CASE SEPARATION: Wherein the
case head breaks away from the
site rifling grooves, necessary to
proper bullet diameter selection. ?
body of the case, indicative of
IGNITION: The sequence of firing
weakened brass or excessive
pin impact upon the primer
headspace (chamber size and
resulting in burning priming com-
length) in the firearm.
pound being directed through the
C.U.P. Vs P.S.I. - Copper Units of case flash hole into the powder
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Pressure: An expression of rela- chamber.
tive chamber pressure deter-
KEYHOLE: An elongated hole in
mined mechanically by the mea-
a target indicative of a destabi-
surement of a copper pellet sub-
lized bullet due to either inade-
jected to firing forces. P.S.I.:
quate rotational speed, a
Pounds per square inch, is a stan-
deformed /imbalanced bullet or
dard unit of measurement for
deflection from striking an object
pressure/force, not directly com-
in flight.
parable to C.U.P.’s (P.S.I. is
inferred by electronic instruments LAND: Raised spiral between
which can provide a more com- grooves in a rifled bore.
plete and accurate view of cham-
LEADE: (Throat) That portion of
ber pressure over time.)
the bore ahead of the case mouth
DECAPPING: Removal of spent wherein the lands are reamed out
primer usually during sizing at an angle to permit entry of the
operation. bullet.
FULL CHARGE: Ammo loaded to LEADING: The accumulation of

SAAMI-Standard power or factory bullet alloy in a bore (or an adja-
ammo equivalent. cent surface) caused by abrasion
(friction) between bullet and
GAS CUTTING: Accuracy ruining
rifling and/or the deposit of
erosion or vaporization of the bul-
vaporized alloy onto the bore;
let and subsequent bore leading
often a symptom of gas cutting,
caused by gases escaping around
incorrect bullet diameter or
and between it and the bullet,
excessive pressure.
often due to incorrect matching
LOAD DENSITY: Ratio of volume use. Swaging or deburring tools
of a powder charge to net volume are used to remove this crimp for
of the case (when fired and reloading.
expanded to chamber dimen-
POWER FACTOR (PF): Bullet
sions). 50% load density=1/2 of
? the available case volume occu-
pied by the powder charge. The
velocity in feet per second multi-
plied by bullet weight in grains,
divided by 1000 (Velocity x
higher (fuller) the load density,
Weight) / 1000. Product used to
the faster the burning rate and
determine relative power of a load
higher the pressure of a given
for competition or comparison.
charge.
Minimum I.P.S.C. major PF=175;
MISFIRE: A failure of a cartridge minor=125.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
to fire correctly, usually due to: a) NRA Action PF=120.

Improperly seated primer b) Light
ROLL CRIMP: Progressive folding
firing pin strike c) Less frequently,
of case mouth into crimp groove
a contaminated or “dead” primer
to retain revolver and carbine bul-
d) Rarely, a blocked flash hole or
lets against movement due to
contaminated powder charge.
recoil.
OBTURATION: Shortening and
SECTIONAL DENSITY: Numerical
expansion of a bullet in the bore
expression of proportion of a
in proportion to the pressure
given bullet’s mass to its cross
exerted on it by gas pressure.
sectional area. Used to determine
Ideally, correct fit of bullet to
ballistic coefficient.
groove diameter in conjunction
with obturation effects will pre- TAPER CRIMP: Gradual narrow-
vent leakage and gas cutting; ing of case mouth to retain stan-
whereas bullet obturation alone dard bullets, typically in auto pis-
cannot be counted upon to seal a tol cartridges.
grossly oversized bore.
THROAT DIAMETER: The diame-
OGIVE: That portion of any bullet ter of the exit leade of the cylin-
ahead of the bearing surface. der ahead of the chamber, which
with the groove diameter is used
PRIMER CRIMP: As found on
to determine the correct bullet
some military cases, the folding
diameter for a particular revolver.
or coining over of the primer
pocket edge to positively retain
the primer for automatic weapon
Properties of Black
and Smokeless Powder
T here are three basic types of propellants used by sport shooters:
POWDER
black powder, black powder substitutes (Pyrodex®), and smoke-
less powders.
Black powder is the oldest class of propellant available. It is a mixture

of charcoal, sulfur and potassium nitrate. It has many disadvantages
as a metallic cartridge propellant, being very dirty and inefficient. The
residue it leaves behind is hydroscopic and corrosive to brass and gun
parts, thus immediate and meticulous cleaning is required after firing.
Its proper use is largely restricted to certain large bore rifles and
S.A.S.S. competition. Black powder is classified as an explosive and
unlike smokeless will detonate unconfined. Therefore black powder
requires proper storage and handling procedures. Pyrodex® and cer-
tain other black powder substitutes offer the handling convenience
and stability of smokeless powders with load density and pressure
characteristics similar to black powder. All are mildly corrosive and
cleaning after firing with Pyrodex® is no less important. Pyrodex® is
designed to be equivalent to black powder by VOLUME, NOT WEIGHT.
Black Powder Granulations

Grain Size Pyrodex® Equivalent
Black # Use (Average) (Volume-For-Volume)
Fg (1f) Large Bore Rifles .062" N/A
FFg (2f) Rifles and Carbines .047" RS or Select
FFFg (3f) Small and Medium Pistols .030" ‘P’
FFFFg (4f) Priming/Flint Lock .014" N/A
Smokeless powders were developed from gun cotton in the 1870s,
and first used in shotgun loads. Most smokeless powders are classi-
fied as follows:
1. Single base - using nitrocellulose.
2. Double base - using nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin.
These basic compounds are moderated by their shape, area, density,

and/or the addition of flame retardants to manufacture the full range
of propellants, each with its specific and unique burn rate, specific
gravity and loading characteristics. Solid film coatings and powdered
graphite are used to enhance metering and storage stability.
Commonly, smokeless powders are further classified by shape:
POWDER
1. Extruded - small cylindrical rods.
2. Flake - thin dots.
3. Spherical - small balls.
In practice, certain propellants are mixtures of two or more shapes

and sizes. Because large flake and some extruded powders tend to
settle and measure less consistently than spherical powders, atten-
tion to careful measuring and metering is crucial to accuracy. Many
2 3
Powder types: 1-extruded; 2-flake; 3-spherical.
manufacturers add dyes or unique grain shapes for identification pur-
poses. It’s a good idea to become familiar with the appearance of the
various powders you use to help prevent potentially disastrous errors.
Do not use powder you cannot positively identify!
Smokeless propellants are designed to burn readily and release large

volumes of gas until consumed. All powders must be handled and
✚
stored away from potential sources of ignition, whether open flame,
high heat, or electrical spark. Smokeless powders contain sufficient
oxygen for combustion and can cause serious burns. Your shooting
and reloading enjoyment would be impaired by the dispossession
and skin grafts resulting from an accidental powder fire. Thus, your
religious observance of all safety procedures is required.
POWDER
POWDER DO’S AND DON’TS
Propellant powders are designed to burn readily with the release of
hot gases and flames. Since burn rates and pressures rise with densi-
ty and confinement, it follows that proper storage and handling of
powders depends on separation and insulation:
• NEVER store large quantities of powder together. Instead

store stocks of powder in several separate, lightly con-
structed but fire insulated cabinets or boxes. (Always fol-
low manufacturer’s guidelines for storage and handling of
all components)
• ALWAYS wear eye protection when handling powder or

primers.
• AVOID SOURCES OF IGNITION, such as: heat, flames,

sparks and electrical equipment. Keep an appropriate fire
extinguisher at the entrance to your reloading area.
• NEVER store powders near solvents, flammables or

aerosols.
• NEVER transfer powders into non-DOT approved or incor-

rectly marked containers.
• Store powders in a cool, dry environment.
• NEVER use any powder or other components that are not

clearly identified. Guessing powder types by appearance will
result in disaster! If you aren’t sure, don’t load with it.
✚ • NEVER use powder reclaimed from pulled ammunition or

blank rounds.
• To preserve quality and correct identification, ALWAYS

return unused powder from your measure to its original
container when you finish loading.
• NEVER discard waste powder in your trash. Destroy old or

POWDER
discarded powders according to manufacturer’s directions

only.
• ALWAYS reduce charges 10% and work up slowly whenev-

er you change lots of a given powder. Many powders can
vary considerably lot to lot. (EXCEPTION: Certain powders
should not be used in reduced loads and are identified
herein. Reduce these 3% to start.)
• Reloading components are hazardous when improperly

handled. PROTECT CHILDREN AND OTHERS FROM
INJURY OR DEATH by securing all components from
unauthorized access.
Primers
B y deliberate design and intent, primers explode, and do so with
PRIMERS
relatively little pressure or heat exposure. They demand the care
and respect you would accord any other explosive device. All primers
consist of: a cup containing an impact sensitive explosive compound,
a thin wad or sealant to protect the propellant and keep it in place,
and an anvil, against which the firing pin mashes the cup and com-
pound to cause detonation. There are two basic primers commonly
encountered in North America:
Berdan primers use an anvil that is integral to the case primer

pocket, rather than a separate anvil which is assembled in the primer
cup itself (like the Boxer system). Because the centrally located anvil
of the Berdan system does not permit easy removal of spent primers
with an ordinary decapping pin, Berdan cases are not considered
reloadable. They can be reloaded using special tools. However this is
beyond the capability of most home reloaders. The only currently
made American ammunition using this system is the aluminum-
cased CCI Blazer line of inexpensive non-reloadable pistol cartridges.
Berdan primers are also found in some foreign military surplus
ammunition available in this country. Be certain to sort out and dis-
card Berdan cases before you reload.
Boxer primers were developed with ease of loading in mind. The

central large flash hole makes decapping simple, while the shape and
balance afforded by the anvil makes automated primer handling and
seating less problematic. All further references are to Boxer primers.
The two basic diameters of sporting primers are:
Large .210"
Small .175"
Small rifle and small pistol primers are dimensionally identical,

though they aren’t interchangeable in performance and one should
never be substituted for the other. On the other hand, large rifle
primers are too tall to seat below flush in pistol/carbine cases. Use of
large rifle primers in pistol cartridges will produce unreliable, over
pressured and unsafe loads!
The various manufacturers color code their primers for identification.

Be familiar with what you use and safely discard any primers you
PRIMERS
can’t identify.
Small pistol and rifle primers are dimensionally similar, but there are
significant differences in performance and construction. Cup thick-
ness of a typical small rifle primer versus a small pistol primer is
.003" to .009" greater, depending on manufacturer. This thicker cup,
not a difference in material, results in a harder primer that is
designed to be fired by the manly blow from a rifle striker rather
than the indifferent little tap offered by your highly tuned competi-
tion pistol. Misfires and/or accuracy problems associated with incon-
sistent ignition are a frequent result of small rifle primers being used
in handgun applications inappropriately.
Standard pistol primers are more than adequate to ignite most of

the loads found in this book. Pistol magnum primers are specified
only for certain high density slow-burning powder loads in mag-
nums. Generally use of magnum pistol primers is to be avoided, par-
ticularly with smaller-capacity cartridges like 9mm parabellum,
40 S&W, or 38 Special. Our testing shows increased leading, poor
accuracy, and increased pressure with little improvement in velocity
in all but the largest cases and densest loadings. Hard primers
(thick cups as with small rifle primers) can mask pressure signs and
create a false impression that a given load is safely within limits
when it may be marginal or worse. Small rifle primers are rated for
higher pressure and don’t show pressure signs that small pistol
primers do, thereby failing to warn you of impending disaster. Small
rifle primers are commonly used with major-power loads in
38 Super, 40 S&W, and 9x21, for IPSC/USPSA competition in an
attempt to prevent primer flow and cratering problems. This prac-
tice must be approached with great caution! Your loads should
never exceed accepted standards, or be so hot as to require rifle
primers to be reliable. (See the special IPSC section.)
The industry-wide standard sporting priming compound in use today

is lead styphenate, which replaced the older potassium chlorate com-
pounds used through the 1950s. While potassium chlorate primers are
very reliable and stable, the residue they leave is hydroscopic and cor-
rosive. The new lead-based priming compounds have saved a moun-
PRIMERS
tain of rusted bores; however, the toxic lead smoke they add to the air
and the residues left on your brass are significant sources of exposure.
Lead poisoning is a risk for people who shoot a lot and reload their
own ammunition or who shoot indoors. Many indoor ranges lack the
air replacement equipment required to reduce your exposure risk to
outdoor levels. If you shoot indoors you should consider a respirator.
You should also wear an appropriate respirator whenever you tumble,
clean, and separate media from your fired cases. Skin absorption rates
from lead are low, but washing your hands and wearing gloves will
prevent inadvertent ingestion of lead particles (from wiping your
face, handling food, smoking, or drinking).
Currently, only Fiocchi of Italy is marketing lead free primers to

reloaders. Lead free primers use a compound that is more affected by
moisture and humidity than lead styphenate primers. If you choose
to use them, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for sealing
and shelf life. Primer sealants are available commercially for this pur-
pose. Lead based primers are largely unaffected by humidity and do
not require the use of a sealant under normal conditions, nor do they
require airtight containers for storage. However, high temperatures
and exposure to various chemicals or fumes are very likely to cause
deterioration with resulting misfires or inconsistent ignition.
PRIMER DO’S AND DON’TS
Accidental detonations of massed primers (as in a primer tube or
magazine) can be lethal; eye injury, deafness and fragmentation
wounds are a given. In the interest of avoiding such a catastrophe,
✚ follow these rules for safe handling and storage of primers:
• NEVER transfer primers from original packaging to any

other container. Loose, bulk primers are called “Bombs”!
One primers’ detonation will set off all adjacent primers
simultaneously. Primers are designed to detonate easily.
• NEVER store your primers near possible sources of igni-

tion, like: heat, flames, sparks and electrical equipment.
PRIMERS
• NEVER subject primers to impact or vibration. Continued

shaking can dislodge priming compound. Accumulated
priming compound can become a source of detonation.
• ALWAYS wear eye protection when handling primers or

powder.
• NEVER store primers and powder in the same location.
• Primers should be stored in a cool, dry environment.
• NEVER change primer types without testing your load

with a reduced charge first.
• NEVER decap a live primer. Fire it in a gun or discard

safely.
• DON’T use hard or rifle primers to mask signs of excessive

pressure.
• Keep ALL components away from children!
• Primers are color coded by manufacturers. DO become

familiar with the appearance of the primers you use to
avoid mistakes. Unidentified components are nothing more
that hazardous junk to be safely discarded.
• A clean reloading bench is a safe reloading bench. DO

sweep away any spent or dropped primers, loose powder,
and objects that could cause a dropped primer to detonate.
• DO keep your priming mechanisms clean and free of
residues.
• DON’T handle individual primers with your fingers to

avoid possible contamination. Dropped primers may be
damaged and should not be used.
✚
• USE UTMOST CAUTION when filling primer tubes or
charging your press priming system. To minimize your risk
of accidental detonation, drop primers into the magazine
slowly.
• Keep spare primers away from your loading operation.

Loaded primer tubes should be separated and placed
PRIMERS
where they cannot tip over or fall.
Primer Designation Chart

Winchester Federal Remington CCI
Small WSP 100 1 1/2 500

Pistol
Small Pistol WSPM 5 1/2 550 MAG
Magnum
Small WSR 200 6 1/2 400
Rifle 205 BR4
205M
Small Rifle 7 1/2 450 MAG
Magnum
Large WLP 150 2 1/2 300
Pistol
Large Pistol WLP 155 350 MAG
Magnum
Large WLR 210 9 1/2 200
Rifle 210M BR2
Large Rifle 215 9 1/2M 250 MAG
Magnum
Caution: when substituting a primer of a different manufacturer or type, reduce
maximum loads 10% and work back up carefully watching for pressure signs.
Brass Casings
FUNCTION:
BRASS CASINGS
As your gun’s coordinator of primer, powder and bullet, the cartridge

case is critical to ballistic performance and firearm function. Reliable,
safe and accurate reloads cannot be had with indifferently selected,
defective or poorly prepared brass. To avoid a devil’s host of ammo
problems you must become familiar with proper selection, inspection
and preparation procedures. As well, a working knowledge of case
design and function will help you optimize your reloads to get the
best performance from your gun.
A case is called upon to perform many interrelated functions with

complete precision and reliability. It must:
1. Work reliably through the gun’s feed mechanism.
2. Fit precisely to the firing chamber and bullet.
3. Orient the bullet to bore and the primer to firing pin hole.
4. Direct the primers’ flash and heat to the powder charge.
5. Expand under thousands of PSI chamber pressure to seal the

breech without failure.
6. When expended, contract to permit easy extraction.
Modern brass cases do all this with such boring reliability as to

invite neglect by handloaders who might understandably be more
fascinated by powder charge and bullet combinations than by
primer pockets and case necks. The fact remains, however, that
clean, correctly dimensioned brass in perfect condition is essential
to success on the range.
Modern cartridge cases are referred to as “brass” because most are

indeed drawn from it, though alternative materials are sometimes
encountered. Generally, aluminum or lacquered steel cases are
Berdan primed and should be considered non-reloadable. To save
broken decapping pins learn to recognize Berdan cases and discard
them, i.e. CCI Blazer as shown below:
BRASS CASINGS
Left: Berdan/CCI Blazer case
Right: Boxer - primed case
BRASS CASE TYPES

With 150 years of continuous development, there exist uncounted
thousands of various cartridge designs reflecting endless combina-
tions of caliber and case type. Still, the industry has a mania for cre-
ating new improvements on the old, proven standbys. Thus, we have
the 40 S&W in place of 10mm Norma, or 9x23 Winchester as an
alternative to 9mm or 38 Super Auto. With so many common car-
tridge variations out there, familiarity with cartridge identification
and classification is a must.
Left to right: Rimmed, semi-rimmed,

rimless, and rebated rim
Most handgun and carbine cartridges can be classified by body style
and head design into these basic categories:
Body Casehead
Straight-walled Rimmed
Tapered Semi-rimmed
Bottlenecked Rimless
Belted
Rebated-rimless
BRASS CASINGS
The most basic category of case design — rimmed, straight-walled

cases — are very easily resized, and their cylindrical shape affords
good die support during bullet seating and crimping stages. Such old
standards as 44 Special are far more popular than ballistically similar
bottleneck rounds like 44/40 for their ease of reloading. With their
long tapered shape, the old black powder era bottlenecked rounds
(44/40, 38/40, 32/20) feed and chamber reliably in the revolvers and
carbines of their day, even when fouled. The larger case capacity
afforded by this plan was necessary to achieve the ballistics required
with black powder, but is a detriment to consistency with modern
propellants and low-density charges. For all of these reasons, straight
walled cases are to be preferred for most modern applications where
the shooter has a choice.
The same disadvantages pertain to bottlenecked auto pistol cartridges

and the shooter has scant incentive to choose one where brute force
isn’t required. For example, the .357 SIG will push our 124 Round
Nose to 1360 fps, while the 38 Super can safely achieve 1260 fps
without the attendant problems associated with reloading the bottle-
necked case (see section on Action/IPSC in Chapter 4).
An auto pistol round must have excellent feeding characteristics

(“transfer factor”) as well, and the straight walled rounds like
38 Super have that all beat compared to bottlenecked alternatives
like .357 SIG. Because they have very short case necks, bottlenecked
cases do not hold the bullet as securely against feeding impact while
the overbore case diameter of the bottlenecked pistol rounds can
cause problems with magazine function in some guns.
INSPECTION AND PRESSURE INDICATIONS
Determining condition and spotting defective brass is crucial to suc-
cessful reloading. We have seen that brass cases must be ductile and
soft enough to expand under chamber pressure without failing. This
ductility affects case life. Each cycle of resizing, reloading and firing
shortens a cartridge case’s usable life, and failure occurs when brass ✚
has flowed beyond the resizing dies’ ability to restore its proper
dimensions or the brass has been stressed beyond its yield point and
splits, cracks or separates. The number of reloading cycles a given
case will yield is dependent on the chamber pressure it’s subjected
to, the chamber dimensions it’s fired in and the amount of mechani-
cal work required to resize and reload it. Deep extractor gouges may
BRASS CASINGS
make the brass slip off the extractor prior to ejection, thereby render-
ing the semi-automatic unusable until the case is manually removed
from the chamber.
Left to right: case head collapsed into body; cracked wall; incipi-
ent blowout at feed ramp; extractor damage to web and rim.
Pressure signs, left to right: normal, flattened, cratered, flowed,

pierced/blown, backed out with firing pin drag.
Case failure manifests itself in these ways:
• Case neck splits, due to overworking of brass.

• Case head expansion (“Belted magnum effect”).
• Incipient blowout at feed ramp.
✚ • Rim damage from repeated feeding and extraction.
• Loose primer pockets.
• Body splits.
• Case head separation.
CHAMBER DIMENSIONS AND FEED RAMP THROATING

BRASS CASINGS
Brass expansion is the primary factor in case life. Chamber dimen-

sions must strike a compromise between case support and firearm
function. The less a case must expand to fit the chamber and seal the
breech, the less resizing work required to reload it and the longer it
will last. Pressure being exerted equally in all directions, brass will
flow away wherever it is not supported by the chamber or breech-
face. Thus, cases typically fail at the juncture of body and case head
where the ratio of body expansion to base diameter is greatest. A
majority of semi-auto pistol chambers are relieved at the feed ramp
to facilitate feeding, resulting in a partially unsupported case head.
Brass will by nature flow at this point weakening it. Over pressure
rounds will likely fail by rupturing through the feed ramp throat,
while normal expansion and flow will cause failure eventually.
Significant bulging of your brass at the feed ramp is a sign of exces-
sive pressure, brass fatigue and/or an incorrectly throated barrel. At a
minimum, your pistol’s chamber
should support the case body
through its web area, but full
case wall support to the extractor
groove is ideal.
Left: unsupported chamber.

Right: supported chamber with
minimal case wall visible at
feed ramp intrusion.
PRIMER POCKETS
Another indication of case fatigue is loose primer pockets, caused by
case head expansion. Such cases must be discarded. Loose primer
pockets permit leakage which will damage your gun’s breech face. In
low pressure cartridges like 45 ACP or 38 Special, loose primer pock-
ets will not appear for many reloading cycles. Generally, such cases
present with neck splits or rim damage before loose primer pockets
develop. That’s not necessarily true with high pressure jobs like 9x23,
38 Super or 40 S&W when loaded to maximum. Case head expansion
cannot be fully corrected through resizing, and is directly related to
chamber pressure and chamber size. Watch carefully and discard all
brass with loose pockets, bulged, unresizable case head diameter or
BRASS CASINGS
obvious swelling in the extractor groove. Sort out and keep track of
your cases. You should know how many firings each piece has
endured, and if you experience failures you need to reexamine your
loads. Case life is shortened drastically as pressure rises; backing off
5% or 10% can make a huge difference. And while there is no
absolute rule, you should accept no load combo which won’t permit a
minimum case life of six firings without obvious damage.
CASE NECKS
Case neck splits, on the other hand, are somewhat preventable, since
they are usually caused by repeated belling and crimping. It makes
much sense to bell the case mouth no more than is required to clean-
ly seat the bullet without shaving. A flare inside diameter that’s .010"
over bullet diameter is usually adequate. Crimp dimensions are called
out for each cartridge/bullet combination; excess crimp beyond stat-
ed values is never recommended and is potentially hazardous.
Excessive crimping will raise chamber pressure, distort the bullet and
can affect headspace! Be careful.
BRASS CASE CLEANING AND POLISHING
Fired cases must be prepared for reloading by removing the spent
primer, dirt, fouling and lead residues, and resizing to original dimen-
sions. Resizing and spent primer removal (decapping) is commonly
performed as the first operation on your reloading press, though
some shooters prefer to size and decap before they clean their brass
to remove fouling from the primer pockets as well.
Case cleaning can be accomplished wet, by washing your brass in a

water based detergent solution, or dry by tumbling your brass in an
abrasive media. Either way, remember that lead residues will be pre-
sent that you must protect yourself and others from lead exposure.
BRASS CASINGS
Gloves and an appropriate respirator are required. I do not

prefer wet cleaning of brass. Although wet cleaning does reduce
exposure to airborne lead residue it is messy, time consuming and
safe disposal of waste water and detergent is problematic. Washed
brass will discolor and develop verdigris; while perhaps not unsafe,
such ugly stuff inspires no confidence. Much easier and more effec-
tive is tumbling in media. Various vibrating case cleaners, rock tum-
blers, media separators and basketry are available to the reloader.
Select a machine larger than you think you will need; the bigger units
are more cost effective and efficient. The typical cleaning process is a
three stage affair:
• First, shake out your cases to remove range dirt and knock
out loose spent primers. Discard any cases with missing
primers before continuing.
• Second, tumble your brass in a coarse media to clean them.

Corn cob grit (chicken scratch at the feed store) works very
well. Run them for about 2 hours or so. Separate out.
• Third, polish your cases in crushed walnut hulls. You can use
one of the liquid polish additives, but this isn’t necessary.
Your finished cases should be clean, uniform in appearance
and devoid of heavy residues or powder fouling. (A mirror
polish is neither necessary nor desired.)
Avoid unnecessary lead exposure; wear gloves and a proper respira-
tor when handling media. Be sure to read and follow the manufactur-
er’s instructions and precautions when tumbling your cases. Your
media degrades and becomes contaminated with use. Media is
cheap; discard it when you see evidence of poor performance.
Ideally you should sort and inspect your brass both before and after
cleaning and polishing. Certain stress failure symptoms (such as the
ring identifying an incipient head separation) can be masked by the
cleaning process, while cracks and bulges might be more easily
detected afterwards.
Finally, there is the question of whether to deprime before cleaning
BRASS CASINGS
and polishing for the purpose of accessing and cleaning out the
primer pocket. Generally, the residue that remains behind in the
pocket is minor and doesn’t interfere with primer seating or ignition.
However, for critical applications, cleaning the primer pockets isn’t a
bad idea. Resize and deprime brass after cleaning, but before you
run them through the polishing media. You can use a manual primer
pocket cleaning tool, or just tumble them again. Generally no amount
of tumbling in media will do as good a job as a quick twist with a
handheld tool. After polishing deprimed brass, be certain to run them
through the resize and deprime stage again to remove stuck media
from the flash holes. Failure to do this invites misfires.
Bullets
S election of the proper bullet of a given caliber for your intended

BULLETS
application is influenced by a number of interrelated factors:
• Function - The bullet must permit correct feeding, O.A.L.,

and be of appropriate design to work safely in your gun.
• Ballistics - The bullets’ weight and sectional density must be

matched to the velocity and/or terminal effect desired.
• Safety - Certain bullet/firearm combinations may be danger-

ous. Be aware of any safety limitations imposed by your gun’s
design.
Auto pistol cartridges must cycle through the pistol’s feed mecha-
nism. (The same holds true for repeating carbine cartridges as well.)
Proper bullet shape is crucial to reliable function in repeating and
semi-auto guns which is why truncated cone, round nosed or round
nose/flat point bullets are preferred over most semi wad cutter
designs. Caution: Cartridges intended for use in tubular maga-
zine-fed guns must only be loaded with flat point bullets. Round
nose designs can cause disastrous magazine detonations in tube-fed
guns! For revolver use where speed-reloading is not a major consider-
ation, the length of the cylinder and/or crimp groove location on the
bullet becomes the factor limiting your bullet selection. Heavy loads
in particular, require a substantial roll crimp to maintain O.A.L. and
correct bullet pull under recoil. Thus, dedicated revolver (and repeat-
ing carbine) bullets are designed to be loaded to a set O.A.L. and
crimped according to the crimp groove location. Certainly, taper
crimped light loads may be safely used in most revolvers, but there is
little reason to use auto pistol-type bullets in your revolver and doing
so may not be safe in all circumstances.
BALLISTICS AND TERMINAL EFFECT

Select a bullet that does the most work on your target with the least
stress to you and your gun. Here are a few clues:
• Wad cutter and semi wad cutter bullets cut clean, easily
scored holes in paper targets.
• Lighter bullets at a given velocity deliver less felt recoil, for
BULLETS
target applications where power factor isn’t important (i.e. tra-
ditional Bullseye and plinking).
• Heavier bullets can be loaded to a given power factor with

less powder, blast and recoil than a lighter bullet can (i.e.
USPSA Limited class).
• Long, heavy bullets are the choice for steel targets that need
to fall; light bullets for steel that “rings.”
• Long, heavy bullets lose less velocity over a given distance

and are preferred for long-range shooting (i.e. Metallic
Silhouette).
Refer to the section covering your sporting application for more spe-
cific loading suggestions. Remember - Do not vary from the load
specifications in this or any other manual!
What makes these
things so accurate?
T hat’s the question that Oregon Trail Bullet Company employees

WHAT MAKES THESE THINGS SO ACCURATE?
get asked many times a day by customers. We will attempt here

to give you an explanation that is hopefully not too technical.
The Laser-Cast alloy is a multi-element virgin alloy that is prepared in

a smelter especially for this purpose. It contains such minerals as
copper, bismuth, antimony, arsenic, silver, lead and a few trace ele-
ments. The exact mix is a trade secret as is the temperature at which
the alloy is poured.
This alloy was developed to do three things and we now know it does
them well: deliver better accuracy, allow use at higher velocities and
eliminate leading. Okay, so the Laser-Cast silver bullets do this… BUT
HOW?
The silver, in conjunction with copper and arsenic, creates a condi-

tion referred to by metallurgists as inoculation. This is defined as
“the introduction of a substance into a metallic mix for the purpose
of providing additional centers for crystallization.” Normal alloys
solidify from the outside-in (the coolest areas first). The Laser-Cast sil-
ver alloy solidifies from the inside-out in spite of it being the hottest
area in the mix. Inoculation causes a more uniform grain structure
which means a denser bullet, more stable and less prone to air pock-
ets. The bullet fills out better, looks better and is much more consis-
tent bullet to bullet. (Many of our customers mention that they notice
these differences.)
The unique mix of these particular metals also causes another condi-
tion to occur: Dendrite Melt-off. This is defined as “the branching of
the grain structure caused by a foreign mineral.” Branching of the
grain structure causes the bullet to have increased strength. (Think of
the Empire State Building with a bunch of extra steel girders in it.)
This helps the bullet resist the forces of ignition and the shock of the
super-sonic wave. This results in increased accuracy and also causes
the bullet to have much less tendency to lead the barrel of the gun.
The hardness of this alloy is 24 BHN which is half way between cop-
per bullets (50 BHN) and normal cast bullets (15 BHN). That’s why
you can shoot the Laser-Cast silver bullet at copper jacket speeds but
still not cause undue barrel wear. One other side benefit of the bullet
WHAT MAKES THESE THINGS SO ACCURATE?

is that it has less resistance to the barrel than other bullets. This
allows the use of less powder to achieve the same speeds.
So there you have it. All you wanted to know about bullet metallurgy
and more!
— Oregon Trail Bullet Company Staff
Understanding bullet obturation
There has been much discussion recently about bullet obturation and
UNDERSTANDING BULLET OBTURATION
specifically at what pressure the Laser-Cast silver bullet obturates (there-

fore sealing the barrel from gas blow-by and gas cutting). We asked our
resident consulting ballistic metallurgist, Dennis Marshall, to help
explain this condition. Here is what he had to say:
T he ordnance definition of obturation is the expansion of a car-

tridge case or projectile to seal off the breech portion of a firearm
and prevent escape of combustion gases. While case obturation to
seal the rear of the breach seems to be readily understood, there
exists some confusion regarding the nature of bullet obturation.
If a cast bullet is placed on an anvil and struck sharply with a ham-

mer, it will be shorted and its diameter will increase. Similarly, when
chamber pressure “strikes” a bullet base, it attempts to shorten and
expand (obturate) the bullet. Unlike the hammer blow, bullet expan-
sion is constrained by the barrel. Further, since pressure is applied to
the base only, obturation begins at the base, overtaking more (but not
all) of the bullet as chamber pressure increases.
It is frequently asked, “How much pressure is required to cause obtu-

ration?” The most significant portion of obturation (that of perma-
nent bullet deformation) begins as the chamber pressure approaches
the bullet alloy’s yield strength as measured in pounds per square
inch. For lead alloys, yield strength has been defined by scientific
research as 480 times the Brinell Harness Number (BHN). For exam-
ple, a bullet with a BHN of 22 will have a yield strength of about
10,600 pst. Hence, the bullet’s base will be the first portion to obtu-
rate at a chamber pressure of 10,600 psi. As chamber pressure con-
tinues to rise, pressure inside the bullet will similarly rise, overtaking
more of the bullet from base toward the nose. Any portion of the bul-
let which is not in close contact with some portion of the chamber or
barrel, and which sees the 10,600 psi pressure level, will begin
expanding in an attempt to seal the breach.
Since the Laser-Cast silver bullet has a hardness of 24 BHN, it begins

obturating at 11,500 psi. By our calculations, the entire base portion
of the bullet is fully obturated at 13,000 psi. As you can see, the
shooter need not worry about obturation when shooting the Laser-
Cast silver bullet at standard velocities.
UNDERSTANDING BULLET OBTURATION

— Dennis Marshall,
Resident Consulting Ballistic Metallurgist
Bullet Fit in Revolvers
O ne of the most important factors in revolver accuracy is the bul-

BULLET FIT IN REVOLVERS
let’s dimension in relation to both the barrel’s groove and cylin-

der’s chamber mouth diameters. With a proper fit the revolver will be
accurate, all other factors considered. An ill-fitting bullet will usually
result in poor accuracy.
So, what constitutes a proper fit? The general rule of thumb pertain-
ing to cast projectiles is that a proper fit in any rifled firearm is a bul-
let .001 inch over the barrel’s groove diameter. For example, with a
barrel measurement of .357 inch, the cast bullet should be .358 inch.
However, occasionally cast bullets .002 or even .003 inch over the
barrel’s groove diameter can be used in a firearm without the slight-
est ill effect. In my personal experience, however, a cast bullet even
.001 inch undersize for the barrel will result in very poor accuracy,
and occasionally even tumbling.
But, then we must consider the cylinder. Ideally, the cylinder’s cham-
ber mouths should also be no more than .001 inch over the barrel’s
groove diameter. Sadly, that is not always the case. The 45 Colt caliber
is probably the worst offender here. For instance, in every single sec-
ond or third generation Colt SAA or foreign made clone that I have
ever personally measured, the cylinder’s chamber mouths measure
.456/.457 inch, but the barrels in those guns are a tight .451 inch. On
the surface then, a bullet for a Colt SAA 45 (or one of the clones)
should be .452 inch. However, quite often a .452-inch bullet gives
poor accuracy in such guns because the loose fit in the chamber
mouth allows it to enter the barrel’s forcing cone cocked off its axis.
For a bullet to properly fit those 45 Colt cylinder chamber mouth
dimensions it would have to be .456 inch, but making one swage
down a full .005 inch when passing through the bore seems like a bit
much. Therefore, I compromise in my personal reloading for Colt
SAA and clone 45s by loading bullets in .454 inch. The increase in
accuracy is noticeable, while the increase in pressure is not. For those
45 Colt revolvers whose makers are aware of this mismatched dimen-
sion problem and cut their cylinder chamber mouths at .452 inch,
then that is also the correct size for the bullet.
My own very rough rule of thumb concerning bullet fit is as follows.

Take your cylinder from the revolver, and from the rear end drop
your intended bullet into a chamber. If it falls all the way through and
BULLET FIT IN REVOLVERS

bounces off your toe, then it is too loose a fit and probably will not
be accurate. On the other hand if the bullet hangs up in the chamber
with just the nose protruding from the cylinder front then most likely
it will give good accuracy.
— Mike Venturino
Loading Procedures and Safety
LOADING PROCEDURES AND SAFETY
Y our press, dies, scale, primer tubes and tools are arrayed before
you. You have selected a bullet, primer and powder charge com-
bination to suit your particular application, and a gleaming tray full of
clean, inspected brass awaits. Now what?
Your goal of course, is to assemble all of this stuff into safe, accurate
and reliable ammo in the most effective manner possible. Full under-
standing of each of the loading operations and the adjustment of dies
that perform them is key to success. The loading sequence can be
broken down like this:
1. Resize and deprime.
2. Trim, if required.
3. Reprime.
4. Bell the case mouth to accept bullet entry.
5. Charge with propellant.
6. Seat the bullet.
7. Crimp.
8. Gauge and package.

Die stations:
1-resize-deprime-reprime;
3 2 2-bell case mouth-charge;
1
3-seat bullet;
4-crimp.
4
SIZING AND DECAPPING

Let’s assume you are loading on a modern progressive press (we’re
using a Dillon 550B). Be sure to select the correct shell plate for the
cartridge you’re loading. Dies for straight walled cases should be
screwed down to lightly contact the shellplate. (Pressure exerted on
the base of the die can crack the carbide insert.) For bottlenecked
cases, dies are also generally screwed down all the way, but there are
exceptions. Read and follow your die set manufacturers’ adjustment
instructions. Tighten the locking ring against the tool head while siz-
ing a case. This will aid concentricity between the shell plate and
sizer die. The decapping pin should clear the base of a case by 1/8"
or so, while its supporting head shouldn’t contact inside the case
head. Run a few cases to check for proper sizing and concentricity.
Resizing causes the case to grow longer.
REPRIMING
Repriming is accomplished on the return stroke. Learn the “feel”
required to seat a primer to proper depth, about .004" below flush.
Loose primer pockets will become noticeable to you as you load;

those should be culled aside for practice only, or discarded. You will
see a difference between primers; the heavier cups on magnum and
rifle primers cause them to seat “harder” than pistol primers.
Caution - prime in a smooth and controlled way. Jerky slamming
can cause detonation.
Generally, trimming to length isn’t required for straight walled pistol

cases. Tapered, bottlenecked cases tend to stretch as the shoulder is
blown forward and sized back with each use. Case length affects
headspace and/or crimping dimensions. Cases should be gauged and
sorted by length for critical applications where crimp consistency is
required, while over length brass should be trimmed to specified
length. (Too short cases shouldn’t be used, particularly in auto pistol
calibers that headspace on the case mouth!) Trimming is done before
repriming. Clean trimmed brass thoroughly before continuing.
(Reprime after trimming and recleaning is done - with case actuated
dies.)
BELLING
On the Dillon machine, case mouth bell is performed in one operation
with powder charge dropping, and the powder drop funnel doubles as
an expander ball/flaring tool. Traditional 3-die sets include a separate
expander/bell die. Either should be adjusted to provide just enough
bell to permit bullet seating without shaving or distortion. Excess case
mouth flare needlessly works the brass while possibly causing eccen-
tric bullet seating. You should start with .010" flare over case diameter
and adjust up or down from there. Some sizer dies will reduce case
body diameters under SAAMI specifications. The expander “ball” (or
its equivalent surface on Dillon’s powder funnel) is designed to regu-
late the bullet’s bearing diameter of the case to prevent bulges, eccen-
tricity and bullet distortion from too-tight a fit. Ideally, the inside diam-
eter of a resized case below the mouth should measure .003" or so
under actual bullet diameter. If your sizer runs small, use a powder
funnel or expander ball to bring case diameter back to specs.
Whenever you test run a case to check bell, seating or crimp adjust-

ments on a progressive press, resize a fired case as well. Simulating
loading tension between the toolhead and ram is necessary to make
accurate adjustments to the other die stations. (A note: case neck
chamfer is not a substitute for proper belling and shouldn’t be done
for most handgun cartridges as chamfer can affect crimping.)
WEIGHING AND CHARGING

The single most critical operation in reloading is the consistent func-
tion of the powder measure. It must drop exactly the desired charge
weight every single time. Case-actuated bell-and-measure systems
tend to require some maintenance and careful adjustment, so it’s
important for you to become totally familiar with your press’ system.
Be sure to read and follow your manufacturer’s instructions before
proceeding! On the other hand, manually operated measures are
very reliable. They only require the reloader to manipulate measure
and cases in a consistent manner. If you load on a single stage press,
resist the temptation to drop charges by hand directly into cases
arrayed in a loading block. Your chance of error is too great and the
measure will likely throw inconsistent charges when hand held.
Instead, always use a measure stand or charge from your press. To
adjust your measure for a desired charge weight, first fill the measure
to within 3/4" or so of the top. Since some powders are bulky and
may settle some, it’s a good idea to lightly shake down the powder
column. As you load keep the measure “topped off,” all done to help
insure consistent density and column weight. Now you are ready to
weight charges and adjust your measure.
A NOTE ON SCALES
Your powder scale is only as accurate as the environment in which
it’s used. It must be placed on a solid, level surface away from air
currents or temperature extremes. As well, any scale that isn’t cali-
brated against known test weights is a pied piper of potential disas-
ter! Test and recalibrate both scale and measure before each reload-
ing session. Variation from this practice is unacceptable.
Many bulky or oddly shaped propellants tend to measure somewhat

inconsistently. It’s common to see a variation of one or two tenths of

a grain from one charge to the next with fluffy flake powders like
Solo 1000 or Clays. This variation can affect velocity extreme
spreads, and push given rounds over pressure at maximum loadings.
Thus, one dropped charge won’t necessarily indicate the weight
you’re actually getting. You should adjust to the average of 10 charges
and reduce your load if any one charge exceeds the maximum.
BULLET SEATING
Some 3 die sets incorporate the crimp and seat dies together into
one. Whether loading progressively or on a single stage press, seating
and crimping should always be performed as separate operations or
bullet shaving and inconsistent crimp will result. Ideally a bullet
should seat to preset depth in perfect alignment and concentricity to
the case without shaving, damage, bulging or wrinkling of either
component.
Pay attention!
Left is .40 x .38,
on right is .40 S&W case
fired in a .45 auto.
Factors that most influence bullet seating are:
1. Case inside diameter vs. bullet diameter (–.003/.004").
2. Bell diameter and depth.
3. Seating punch cavity profile.
4. Initial manual alignment of bullet to case.
5. Crimp groove location, which predetermines overall length.
To start, match the seating punch to your bullet nose profile and
install it backed out. This is very important to concentricity and align-
ment. Run an empty case into the seat die and back off the die body

one turn from the point at which it crimps the case mouth. Carefully
place a bullet onto the belled, uncharged case and run it into the
seater. Measure the resulting overall length and adjust the seating
punch down until the correct overall length is achieved. (Remember
to run a fired case in the sizer each time you try a sample round in
another die!) It’s a good idea to run 4 or 5 more dummies to be cer-
tain of your overall length adjustments. Loading test dummies pre-
vents you from accidentally shooting your mistakes.
CRIMPING
In a four or five station progressive press (like the excellent Dillon
550B or 650) the last station is used to crimp. Even if you load on a
single stage press, you should obtain a separate crimp die so you
don’t have to worry about having to readjust your combo seat and
crimp die for each reloading cycle. Adjustment of a standard crimp
die is very simple. Determine the correct crimp/case mouth diameter
from the specifications for your cartridge. (Your die’s instructions
may have a set procedure for crimping. Back this up by measure-
ment and never crimp smaller than the values stated in this reloading
manual!) With a dummy round in the crimp station, screw the crimp
die down until you feel the die’s crimp ring contact the case mouth.
Lower the ram and screw the die down in small increments and
repeat until you measure the crimp diameter called for. Tighten the
die’s locking ring and test a few more dummy rounds to verify your
adjustment and you’re done. Some dedicated crimpers (like the Lee
factory crimp die) use a floating crimp ring which is adjusted by turn-
ing a screw ram in the die’s body. The basic adjustment procedure is
otherwise the same. Remember, variations in case length will affect
crimp values, with shorter cases receiving less crimp.
A FEW MORE CLUES

With everything adjusted and tightened down, you’re almost ready to
produce ammo. Once again, take a moment and refer to the safety
procedure and checklists in this manual. You’re not ready to do any-
thing until you’re ready to be safe. You might find it useful to run a
few more dummy rounds and mark them for future reference. They
will save time should you need to readjust your press to duplicate
that load.
Chapter 2
Handgun
Loading Data
46
32 H&R Magnum
.055
.337
.375
HANDGUN LOADING DATA

.314
.200
1.075
1.350
he 32 H&R Mag was introduced in 1984 as a sort of beefed-up

T 32 S&W Long for use in short-barreled pocket revolvers. Giving
performance that was slightly greater than a 32-20 revolver of similar
barrel length, this cartridge was intended to bridge the power gap
between really ineffectual calibers such as 22 Magnum and the
32 H&R MAGNUM
proven but harder recoiling 38 Special. The practical result was a six-
shot 32 Mag snub nose instead of a 5-shot 38 Special.
Well that was the idea, but 32 H&R Mag never really caught on as a
defensive cartridge. 32 H&R Mag did carve itself a niche as a moder-
ate recoil but adequate punch cartridge and has developed a follow-
ing in the relatively short range “Hunter’s Pistol” Silhouette game
where light recoil and excellent accuracy are appreciated. Cowboy
shooters who want to gain the maximum competitive advantage —
some call it cheating — have been known to shoot a Ruger single six
revolver in 32 H&R Mag to get the fastest times with the lightest
recoil. Nominal bullet diameter is .313", but check your barrel’s
groove diameter. (TCs run tighter than most revolvers.) Single shot
pistols like the Thompson Contender may give best accuracy with a
very light crimp. Revolvers will need a heavier roll crimp, but don’t
overdo it. Bullet jump under recoil isn’t a factor even with maximum
loads. Increased bullet pull from a moderately heavy roll crimp will
promote more complete, consistent combustion of slow powders.
— Gary Morgan
Test Gun: Thompson Contender 10", WSP
Hunter Silhouette Loads

Powder Start Velocity NEVER Velocity
Type Grains FPS EXCEED FPS OAL
115 Flat Point

HP-38 3.2 847 3.7 935 1.340
Red Dot 2.9 842 3.4 951 1.340
Unique 4.0 882 4.5 998 1.340
HS-6 4.9 928 5.5 1011 1.340
H110* 8.6 879 9.5 1027 1.340
AA9* 6.7 863 7.8 1050 1.340
*Use small pistol magnum primer.
Do not exceed the maximum loads!
Use .308 diameter for TC Contender pistol.
32 H&R MAGNUM
32-20 Pistol
5° 42'
.065
.352 .343 .332

.408 .354 .313
.200 .645
.881
.933
1.315
1.592
here are a surprising number of old revolvers hanging around in

T this caliber. 32-20 isn’t a bad revolver round, but wouldn’t be the
best first choice for serious shooting. The bottle-necked case can be a
minor pain to reload (though not as temperamental as the larger
black powder jobs like 44-40). 32-20 is limited in power by the age
32-20 PISTOL
and construction of older guns. These loads are safe for smokeless-
era Colt revolvers in good condition as well as for Smith & Wesson
Military and Police models.
Measure your cylinder bores and groove diameter to select a proper

diameter for your gun.
Refer to 32-20 Rifle for more information.
Test Gun: Colt 5 1/2", WSP
Cowboy Loads
115 Flat Point

231 3.5 735 4.0 840 1.545
Titegroup 2.7 825 3.0 860 1.545
Universal 3.0 815 3.2 875 1.545
Green Dot 4.0 815 4.5 935 1.545
Red Dot 3.6 835 4.1 950 1.545
Unique 5.0 988 5.4 1051 1.545
9 x 19 (9mm Luger)
.035
.050
.391
.394 .347 .356
.200
.754
1.169
he 9x19 is deservedly the most popular pistol/subgun round on

T earth. While controversial among us 45-centric Americans, a prop-
erly built 9mm pistol is capable of excellent accuracy, low recoil and
can be loaded to deliver a serious punch. The 9x19mm’s reputation
for poor accuracy rests not with the cartridge itself, but has all to do
9X19 (9MM LUGER)
with the shallow rifling and indifferent fitting of many service grade
pistols for which it’s lucklessly chambered. Laser-Cast bullets are hard
enough to stabilize and group well from such guns. Best results will
likely be had with heavier bullets and slower powders. Check your
groove diameter and order +.001" over. For action competition
9x19mm will yield tighter extreme velocity spreads compared to
such minor loads in 38 Super Auto. To obtain consistent velocities
and function, pay close attention to taper crimp diameter and base
sizing. A crimp diameter of .3785 is optimal for most brands of com-
mercial brass. Do not reduce overall lengths from those listed for
each bullet.
Test Gun: P-35, 4.5" barrel, WSP
Standard Loads
Powder Start Velocity Maximum Velocity
Type Grains FPS Grains FPS OAL

115 Round Nose
Clays 3.4 1055 3.6 1088 1.10
AA2 4.4 957 4.9 1093 1.10
WSL 3.8 1038 4.1 1112 1.10
231 3.8 1010 4.2 1115 1.10
AA5 5.6 1088 6.2 1169 1.10
HP-38 4.4 1085 4.8 1195 1.10
122 Flat Point
Solo 1000 3.1 950 3.5 1010 1.070
Clays — — 3.2 1017 1.070
AA2 4.0 1000 4.4 1072 1.070
9X19 (9MM LUGER)

231 4.0 1032 4.4 1106 1.070
AA7 7.1 1036 8.1 1135 1.070
Unique 5.2 1085 5.7 1172 1.070
AA5 5.5 1092 6.0 1167 1.070
Universal 4.4 1108 4.7 1168 1.070
HP-38 4.1 1097 4.7 1172 1.070
124 Round Nose
Solo 1000 3.2 945 3.6 1015 1.130
Clays — — 3.2 1010 1.130
AA2 4.1 1008 4.5 1080 1.130
231 4.0 1020 4.4 1094 1.130
540 5.0 1018 5.7 1105 1.130
AA7 7.4 1056 8.3 1149 1.130
Universal 4.2 1072 4.7 1154 1.130
AA5 5.6 1052 6.2 1160 1.130
Unique 5.2 1075 5.8 1175 1.130
HP-38 4.2 1056 4.7 1179 1.130
135 Round Nose
AA2 3.7 916 4.1 978 1.155
WAP 4.6 887 5.2 980 1.155
Universal 3.9 988 4.3 1054 1.155
AA5 5.4 1010 5.7 1058 1.155
231 4.0 996 4.5 1059 1.155

HP-38 3.8 991 4.4 1061 1.155
Unique 4.5 1004 5.0 1070 1.155
147 Flat Point
WAP 4.3 867 4.7 931 1.155
Unique 3.4 838 4.2 965 1.155
AA5 4.6 890 5.1 1000 1.155
AA7 6.5 946 7.2 1077 1.155
9X19 (9MM LUGER)
Action Loads
Powder Type Grains Velocity FPS OAL
115 Round Nose HP-38 4.5 1108 1.100

122 Flat Point HP-38 4.0 1081 1.070
124 Round Nose HP-38 4.3 1071 1.130
135 Round Nose HP-38 3.7 969 1.150
147 Flat Point Universal 3.6 886 1.155
9X21
he 9x21 was developed in Europe to replace 9x19 Nato for civilian

T use where military cartridges are prohibited. Factory loads match

Euro 9x19 ballistics, and handload data for 9x19 may be substituted,
given identical overall lengths. (As always, work up from our start
loads. Results may vary in your particular pistol.) At 9x19 overall
length, 9x21 offers the sole advantage of being easier to reload.
FOR IPSC SHOOTING

9x21 had a brief period of popularity and glory as a “rule beater,”
after standard length 9x19 major loads were banned by USPSA for
exceeding SAAMI pressures — by a lot. (SAAMI had no industry stan-
dards for 9x21, thus no liability exposure was incurred for permitting
its use. Not that it was really a good idea, but we did it.) The various
CZ clones in “short” 9x21 were practically the only option in hose-
9X21
land for a high-cap open gun and bridged the gap from the time of
the single stack Super to our post-modern IPSC era. The advent of
truly safe, dead reliable 1911 system wide body guns killed the
demand for these transitional, unreliable 9x21 guns. 38 Super vari-
ants and 9x23 are far better alternatives for major loads in high
capacity 1911s. 9x21 brass varies greatly by manufacturer. Make sure
your dies will maintain and restore original dimensions for your par-
ticular lot, and do not mix brands. Standard length 9mm major loads
are not recommended and safe alternatives are available, such as
9x23 Winchester or 9 Super Comp. The Italian CZ clones will work
reliably and hold up longer with minor loads and should be reserved
for competition where major power factors aren’t required.
Use 9x19 Data. Do not decrease overall lengths from those stated.
9mm Largo
.390 .379
.392 .355
.910
1.320
minor flood of weird old pistols chambered for 9 Largo has hit
A recently, renewing interest in the cartridge that made Denmark
famous. It’s a solid cartridge, falling roughly into the 9mm x 19 and
38 Auto class. A wide range of pistols of varying strength and quality
have been made for it. (Examine an old Bayard M-1910 sometime to
9MM LARGO
see a work of industrial art.)
9mm Largo is similar in overall length to our more modern (and far
higher-pressured) 38 Super. Popular myth holds that an Astra 400 can
handle any 9mm or 38 Auto class cartridge interchangeably. Not true,
muchacho! 9 Largo chambers are way too huge to safely support
38 Auto cases, while shorter 9mm rounds won’t headspace. Only cor-
rectly loaded 9 Largo rounds are safe to shoot out of your 60-year old,
semi-steel, blowback-driven Franco Furter gun. (Note: 9mm Largo was
the basis for 9x23 and other 38 Super alternatives; we used Midway 9
Bayard brass for IPSC shooting when it was available in the mid-80s.
But, new 9x23 or 9 Super Comp brass is manufactured from heavier
cups and is constructed to take the beating from major loads. Use
modern 9 Largo brass only for standard loads as those listed here.)
These loads are safe for older Astras in good condition.
Test Gun: Colt Government 5", WSP
Factory Duplicate Loads


124 Round Nose
HP-38 4.3 1066 4.7 1145 1.270
231 4.9 1083 5.3 1146 1.270
AA2 4.4 1119 4.7 1181 1.270
700X 4.6 1094 5.0 1183 1.270
9MM LARGO
9 x 23 Winchester
.390 .379
.389 .355
.910
1.320
wenty years’ development by IPSC shooters has revealed certain

T disadvantages of the semi-rimmed 38 Super case, creating
demand for a safer, “major rated” and double-stack friendly alterna-
tive for open competition. 9x21 was tried and found wanting. A cou-
ple of “rimless super” variants were advanced, but their small diame-
9X23 WINCHESTER
ter case heads cause extraction problems in some pistols.
The best option is likely 9 Super Comp brass made by Starline. Its
internal capacity is about 9% larger than 9x23 Winchester and
9x23 CP. The Winchester versions’ extra-thick web allows heavy
loads to be safely fired from stock Colt unsupported barrels, a moot
point for IPSC shooters who should be using fully-supported cham-
bers in their race guns. 9x23’s reduced capacity causes higher pres-
sure for a given power factor load vs. 9 Super Comp, with attendant
primer cratering and flattening being more severe. Use of small rifle
primers can attenuate this problem and prevent misfires from primer
flow or breech face damage with 9x23 major loads, while compara-
ble velocities might be attained safely in 9 Super Comp brass using
pistol primers.
With either, correct headspace and good fit of firing pin to breachface
hole is critical to avoid serious primer cratering and flow problems. At
over 46,000 PSI operating pressure, 9x23 Winchester realistically
requires a hard primer. However, do not use small rifle primers to
mask dangerous pressures! Switching from small pistol to rifle or
magnum primers will increase pressures. Back off charges at least
5% and work back up to the maximums! Do not depend on our test
results for competition velocities; use a chronograph to verify your
load, as your results will differ. 9x23 Winchester and 9 Super Comp
are not load interchangeable. Sort cases by brand and work up to

maximums for each brand. 38 Super data may be substituted. Use as
stated for 9 Super Comp; reduce max loads 5% for 9x23 Winchester
brass. 38 Super has 8% larger seated capacity than 9x23 Winchester.
These test loads were made with new factory primed 9x23
Winchester cases, fired from a stock Colt 9x23 pistol with unsupport-
ed chamber. For your safety do not use these loads in any pistol with
an unsupported chamber regardless of the brass cases you select.
Taper crimp to .3785" minimum diameter.
9X23 WINCHESTER
Test Gun: Colt Government 5", WSR
High-Velocity Loads
122 Flat Point

WAP 7.5 1323 8.1 1388 1.200
AA#7 9.0 1328 9.9 1411 1.200
HS-7 8.7 1416 9.2 1461 1.200
540 8.1 1384 8.7 1463 1.200
HS-6 8.0 1389 8.5 1470 1.200
135 Round Nose
AA#9 10.9 1195 11.6 1261 1.255
540 7.3 1242 7.8 1327 1.255
HS-6 7.2 1240 7.7 1330 1.255
AA#7 8.7 1279 9.2 1349 1.255
9X23 WINCHESTER
IPSC Major Loads

145 Round Nose

AA#9 9.7 1096 10.8 1180 1.280
540 6.6 1190 7.0 1230 1.280
HS-7 7.3 1190 7.7 1246 1.280
AA#7 8.2 1200 8.6 1249 1.280
147 Flat Point
AA#9 10.0 1104 10.8 1173 1.275
540 6.6 1170 7.0 1213 1.275
HS-7 7.2 1156 7.6 1212 1.275
AA#7 8.2 1203 8.6 1247 1.275
All 9x23 loads are for supported chambers only!
38 ACP
.040
.050
.384

.406 .345 .356
.900
1.280
he 38 ACP was chambered in a series of Colt/Browning pistols

T starting with the model of 1900. These pre-1911 government
model designs are not particularly strong; 38 Super auto rounds will
trash these old-timers. The two cartridges are dimensionally identical,
but 38 Super is loaded to far higher pressures. The last 38 ACP pistols
38 ACP
were produced in 1928, and the cartridge was rendered obsolete by
the introduction of the Colt 38 Super government model in 1929.
These mild loads do not exceed 38 ACP pressures and will be safe for
use in old Colts in good condition. Use modern 38 Super brass; mark
your 38 ACP loads for certain identification! A taper crimp at .380" is
correct.
Test Gun: Caspian 1911, 5" Bar-Sto, WSP
Standard Loads
124 Round Nose Bullseye 4.3 1050 1.250

AA2 4.4 1056 1.250
WSL 4.6 1062 1.250
HP-38 4.4 1066 1.250
231 4.6 1078 1.250
38 Super Auto + P
.040
.050
.384
.406 .345 .356
.900
1.280
he 38 Super Auto was developed as a better-penetrating upgrade

T of the 1900-era 38 Auto and was intended to give cops an edge in
their epic battles against the auto bandits of the 1930s. Colt 38 Super
government models did indeed see service with law enforcement
despite their traditional bias towards revolvers. The lawman’s fling
38 SUPER AUTO + P
with the Super ended as Smith & Wesson marketed their 38/44 and
.357 Magnum wheelguns to the law enforcement community. Save to
civilians in Latin American countries (where coup-fearing dictators
wisely restricted their subjects to non-military calibers), sales of
38 Super pistols and ammo remained flat for many years. Modern
interest and development was rekindled by IPSC competitors looking
for a higher capacity alternative to 45 Auto. The first was a Northern
California shooter, Mike Little, who in 1978 commissioned the author
to build a couple of Colt Super “terror weapons” for major power fac-
tor match use. Our early 5", uncompensated and unramped Supers
were shootable and safe enough with the 165 power factor loads of
the day. Later, as the power factor was raised, our 10 round magazine
capacity advantage was offset by more abusive recoil and the occa-
sional case of “Super face.” It was development of good compen-
sators and ramped, fully supported chamber barrels that permitted
the 38 Super to realize its potential as the dominant cartridge for
open category action shooting. While the trend toward light bullets is
undeniable, heavy bullet major loads have some strong advantages.
Laser-Cast bullets in 135, 145 and 147 grain weights can be driven to
major power factor velocities with less pressure and are safer. Such
loads are much easier on your gun and will greatly extend the life of
your bore and brass. Heavier bullets deliver a less violent, more pre-
dictable recoil impulse and such loads may be shot just as competi-
tively as 125 grain screamers in a properly tuned pistol.

Maximum loads must only be fired in properly fitted pistols with
fully supported chambers! Verify the condition of your pistol before
you proceed. Work up to maximum loads slowly and use a chrono-
graph to objectify your results.
Standard small pistol primers should be used when working up maxi-

mum loads. Do not subsitute rifle primers simply to mask pressure
indications such as serious cratering or flow. Use of rifle primers
should not be required for the 38 Super loads listed herein. Reduce
maximum loads 5% when changing primers or powder lots and re-
chronograph to avoid being “minored.”
Starline 38 Super Comp brass is ballistically identical to standard
38 SUPER AUTO + P
semi-rimmed 38 Super auto brass, being simply a rimless version.
Other similar-looking cartridge cases are very different, such as 9x23
Winchester or 9 Largo. Be careful and sort your brass before you load.
Test Gun: STI 5 1/2", WSP
Standard Loads
122 Flat Point

AA2 4.0 923 4.6 1103 1.2
HP-38 4.4 1068 5.0 1166 1.2
WSL 4.6 1059 5.6 1229 1.2
WSF 5.2 1102 6.3 1259 1.2
Universal 5.0 1203 5.5 1278 1.2
Standard Loads
124 Round Nose

AA2 3.9 899 4.5 1070 1.250
HP-38 4.4 1075 4.9 1150 1.250
231 4.7 1087 5.3 1151 1.250
WSL 4.6 1062 5.6 1232 1.250
Universal 5.0 1145 5.7 1250 1.250
WSF 5.2 1091 6.5 1276 1.250
135 Round Nose
HP-38 5.0 1021 5.4 1107 1.255
WSF 5.0 1073 5.7 1168 1.255
38 SUPER AUTO + P
AA5 6.3 1031 6.9 1168 1.255

WSL 4.5 1080 5.0 1169 1.255
HS-6 6.6 1085 7.1 1180 1.255
145 Round Nose
Universal 4.0 894 4.5 1064 1.280
WAP 5.7 996 6.3 1101 1.280
AA7 7.8 1011 8.7 1130 1.280
540 6.3 1014 7.2 1151 1.280
HS-7 7.5 1109 8.1 1176 1.280
147 Truncated Cone
AA7 8.2 1069 8.7 1136 1.275
AA5 6.1 1041 6.6 1141 1.275
AA9 9.5 1060 10.5 1142 1.275
Universal 4.0 1004 4.5 1144 1.275
540 6.5 1132 7.0 1210 1.275
HS-7 7.4 1127 8.0 1212 1.275
All maximum 38 Super loads are for fully supported chambers only!
Test Gun: Caspian 1911, 5", WSP
Action Loads

122 Flat Point HP-38 4.3 1049 1.19
Bullseye 4.3 1053 1.19
124 Round Nose HP-38 4.5 1091 1.250
231 4.7 1087 1.250
Test Gun: Caspian 1911, 5", WSP
38 SUPER AUTO + P
Steel Loads
115 Round Nose 231 4.7 1058 1.2

WSL 4.5 1059 1.2
700X 4.7 1069 1.2
Unique 5.1 1070 1.2
Bullseye 4.9 1099 1.2
HP-38 4.6 1105 1.2
38 S&W for Cowboy Shooting
.050
.386
.440 .361
.200
.775
1.240
espite the fact that the 38 S&W really isn’t very good for any spe-
D cific purpose, it has hung around since the 1870s. Generally
chambered for small, inadequate, short barreled “pocket revolvers”
that range in quality from excellent to, “Why don’t you shoot it first,”
38 S&W was the largest cartridge that would work out of a snub
38 S&W
nose, top break revolver — millions of which were churned out by

firms like Harrington & Richardson and Iver Johnson in the late
1800s and early 1900s. 38 S&W will not chamber properly in
38 Special revolvers.
These guns were essentially the “junk guns” of their day but are
often surprisingly accurate, durable and reliable. Accurate, durable
and reliable as long as they are used within the limits of their rela-
tively weak design and construction. Keep the loads moderate for
safety and remember that like a Colt Single Action most of these old
top breaks are unsafe to carry with a round under the hammer. They
should be loaded and carried with an empty chamber under the
hammer.
Cowboy shooters have sort of rediscovered this caliber for use in

their pocket pistol matches. Ranges are seldom over five yards and
toy balloons or clay pigeons are often used as targets, so no great
power is needed or even wanted. Any load that reliably leaves the
barrel probably has sufficient velocity for this application. What more
can you expect from a gun they stopped making when Truman was
president and cost the original purchaser less than what a Happy
Meal costs today?
Bore diameters vary quite a bit in this cartridge. European guns gen-
erally have larger bores. Oregon Trail bullets can be ordered as large
as .358" in diameter. Check the section on bullet fit in Chapter 1 for
determining which bullet diameter is best for your gun. Although
moderate, these loads are intended for modern smokeless guns in

good mechanical condition. If you have any question about the con-
dition, safety, suitability or age of your revolver, then please have a
qualified gunsmith check it for safety before firing. A roll crimp is
preferred.
— Gary Morgan
Test Gun: H&R 3 1/2", WSP
Cowboy Balloon Loads
38 S&W
Powder Never Velocity
Type Exceed FPS OAL
158 Round Nose HP-38 2.2 582 1.080

Flat Point (.358) 231 2.0 585 1.080
Bullseye 2.0 591 1.080
Red Dot 2.2 628 1.080
Unique 3.0 675 1.080
Load exactly as stated above.
Do not exceed these loads for top-break revolvers!
38 Special
.059
.379
.440 .358
1.155
1.550
his is the most successful and popular of all revolver cartridges. 38

T Special has also been the most reloaded round of any type. It fills
a square as the lightest caliber capable of performing serious work
yet the heaviest that minimally trained people can shoot effectively.
38 Special was universally accepted by law enforcement and military
38 SPECIAL PISTOL
groups for this reason and sporting popularity followed suit.
In reality, few beat cops ever thought 38 Special was adequately pow-
erful, even if fewer really wanted to carry something heavier. In
recent years, 38 Special’s defensive shortcomings were made plain
even to the most politicized police commissioners, and alternatives
now dominate the law enforcement arena.
It’s that legendary lack of power that propelled 38 Special to pre-emi-

nence amongst target shooters and casual marksmen. It maintains
ballistic efficiency throughout a very wide latitude of velocities and
bullet weights, grouping well out of many guns at lower power factors
which would keyhole in larger calibers.
Technically, 38 Special has seen enormous development and

improvement, but its basic dimensions and chambering have
remained essentially unchanged since its introduction in 1902. The
author’s 1906-vintage Smith & Wesson M&P target mikes out no dif-
ferently than a modern Smith & Wesson M-14 and shoots as well.
(This is a credit to the engineers at Smith who got it right the first
time.)
Notes: Our data is directed towards competitive or recreational shoot-
ers who need maximum accuracy with minimal recoil. All loads listed
are within standard-pressure limits for the caliber. They are safe for
use in quality revolvers in good condition (and of course all
.357 Magnums). Owners of small frame revolvers (Colt ‘D’, S&W ‘J’

frames) in particular are advised to reduce maximum loads 10% to
extend service life of these light guns.
Some older revolvers were rechambered to 38 Special from 38 S&W

or 38 Long Colt. If you have an old Webley or Colt Army 38 that
chambers 38 Special, have it examined by a good gunsmith before
shooting or loading for it!
Use small pistol (standard) primers for all loads in this section. As
with other revolver cartridges a roll crimp is preferred, but don’t
overdo it; accuracy in the 148 DB WC benefits from a light crimp.
For Cowboy Action shooting, use only the 158 round nose flat point
38 SPECIAL PISTOL
bullet to eliminate any chance of a round-nosed round finding its way
into a carbine’s magazine tube. The 158 round nose flat point has an
edge on speedloading over the semi wad cutter as well.
As for other revolver cartridges, you should determine your cylinder

exit and bore and groove diameter before you order bullets in quanti-
ty. Refer to the section in Chapter One on bullet selection.
Test Gun: Smith & Wesson 686 6", WSP
Standard Loads
Minimum
125 Truncated Cone

HP-38 3.9 852 4.3 909 1.450
N100 3.3 845 3.7 928 1.450
W-231 4.3 873 4.8 974 1.450
Titegroup 3.7 873 4.1 980 1.450
AA2 4.3 914 4.8 1005 1.450
Bullseye 2.9 711 4.6 1007 1.450
Unique 4.1 742 5.7 1012 1.450
Red Dot 3.4 879 4.3 1018 1.450
700X 3.4 882 4.2 1046 1.450
38 SPECIAL PISTOL
158 Semi Wad Cutter/Round Nose Flat Point/Round Nose

HP-38 3.3 712 3.7 781 1.435
International 3.0 677 3.5 818 1.435
AA2 3.5 766 4.0 839 1.435
Universal 4.1 805 4.5 883 1.435
700X 2.5 685 3.6 884 1.435
Red Dot 3.2 793 3.8 889 1.435
Titegroup 3.3 800 3.8 891 1.435
Unique 3.8 732 5.0 976 1.435
PPC Loads
Minimum
148 Double Base Wad Cutter

Clays 2.2 644 2.5 734 1.175
231 3.0 681 3.4 814 1.175
Titegroup 3.0 814 3.3 862 1.175
Bullseye 2.7 753 3.3 862 1.175
HP-38 3.4 784 3.8 866 1.175
Test Gun: Ruger Blackhawk 6 1/2" , WSP

Cowboy Loads
158 Round Nose 700X 2.6 708 1.435

Flat Point HP-38 3.5 745 1.435
AA2 3.5 749 1.435
Unique 3.9 750 1.435
Bullseye 2.9 756 1.435
Red Dot 3.2 771 1.435
Titegroup 3.2 780 1.435
38 SPECIAL PISTOL
.357 Magnum Pistol
.060
.379
.440 .358
.200
1.290
1.590
he .357 was cooked up as the logical improvement on the higher-

T pressured 38-44 loadings popular with 1930s coppers. Our sample
of vintage Winchester 158 grain 38-44s chronograph at 1060 fps
from a 5-inch blower, well above today’s 38 Special + P stuff. These
38-44 loads were intended for big, purpose-built large-framed
.357 MAGNUM PISTOL
revolvers such as Smith & Wesson’s Outdoorsman and were arguably

the most powerful that could still be inadvertently fired from a stan-
dard 38 Special heater without certain catastrophic failure. The haz-
ard of interchangeability was removed by lengthening the 38 Special
case .135" to 1.29", creating the .357 Magnum.
With no constraints beyond the yield strength of the best revolvers

Smith & Wesson could make, Winchester loaded their original 158
grain .357 Magnum to in excess of 1520 fps from an eight-inch bar-
rel. When introduced in 1935, the new .357 Magnum was indisput-
edly the most powerful handgun round available. With nothing else
to compare it to, its proponents set forth to prove its worth by hunt-
ing all manner of large and dangerous game. These marginally sport-
ing but well-publicized exploits served to exaggerate the Magnum’s
true capabilities and created the “Magnum as elephant gun” myth
that delayed its eventual full acceptance by America’s lawmen.
Of course, as truly brutish calibers such as 44 Magnum came along,

the sporting public began to see .357 Magnum for what it is: a
superbly accurate and efficient cartridge possessed of just enough
power to get you into trouble but not quite enough to always get you
out of it. For example, .357 is surely accurate and flat-shooting
enough to engage the hardest targets in Metallic Silhouette, but lacks
the on-target momentum to reliably drive down the rams with other
than a perfect hit — and then only with a down-range breeze.
Shooting IHMSA standing division with a .357 Magnum revolver must

surely be the ultimate challenge of man vs. metal. (This paradigm
applies directly to its hunting applications as well.)
In other sports where power is a factor, .357 Magnum is very effec-

tive. IPSC/USPSA major power factor is easily achieved from a 6" bar-
rel revolver. Though the 45 Auto Rim is first choice for pins, the .357
is an easier-to-shoot alternative (and usually wins the 8-pin events).
The best thing about a good .357 Magnum revolver is its ability to
fire 38 Specials, and for low power applications that’s the way to fly.
(This section includes reduced .357 loads for Cowboy Shooting. Do
not load them in 38 Special cases!)
.357 MAGNUM PISTOL

Don’t over-flare your brass! A light roll crimp is all you need for
Cowboy loads. Magnum-level charges require a heavy crimp. Seating
depth is determined by crimp groove location; sort sized cases by
length for critical accuracy loading and adjust seating depth accord-
ingly. Use Magnum small pistol primers where indicated by an aster-
isk (*).
Finally, be certain of your gun’s cylinder exit bore and groove diame-
ters; select a bullet diameter at or .001" over the mean diameter.
Test Gun: Smith & Wesson M-686 6", WSP*
Standard Loads
Minimum
125 Truncated Cone

HP-38 4.1 775 5.0 959 1.585
N100 3.6 836 4.3 1003 1.585
Titegroup 4.0 910 4.8 1048 1.585
700X 3.6 843 4.9 1065 1.585
Red Dot 3.8 912 4.9 1092 1.585
HS-6 8.0 1025 9.0 1168 1.585
AA5 8.7 1255 9.5 1369 1.585
Unique 7.7 1320 8.6 1448 1.585
2400* 14.0 1398 16.3 1484 1.585
.357 MAGNUM PISTOL
158 Round Nose Flat Point/Semi Wad Cutter/Round Nose

HP-38 3.6 707 4.2 806 1.570
Bullseye 3.3 751 3.8 813 1.570
N100 3.2 771 3.9 900 1.570
Red Dot 3.6 803 4.4 936 1.570
Titegroup 3.8 838 4.4 943 1.570
AA9* 11.0 1094 12.2 1215 1.570
H4227* 13.5 1172 15.0 1254 1.570
HS-7* 9.0 1136 10.0 1276 1.570
H110* 13.8 1225 14.5 1296 1.570
2400* 14.2 1336 15.3 1460 1.570
Metallic Silhouette Loads

Minimum
180 Flat Point

Unique 5.2 917 6.2 1030 1.580
H4227* 12.1 1082 13.0 1144 1.580
296* 12.5 1035 13.7 1158 1.580
H110* 12.4 1000 13.4 1169 1.580
2400* 10.8 1130 12.0 1187 1.580
Blue Dot 8.9 1214 9.3 1252 1.580
*Requires magnum pistol primers. Do not reduce loads below start charges shown
.357 MAGNUM PISTOL

Test Gun: Smith & Wesson M-686 6", WSP
Cowboy Loads
Powder Maximum Velocity Minimum
Type Grains FPS OAL
125 Truncated Titegroup 4.2 944 1.585

Cone 700X 4.2 945 1.585
N100 4.1 955 1.585
HP-38 5.0 959 1.585
Red Dot 4.1 961 1.585
158 Round Nose Titegroup 3.3 750 1.570
Flat Point Bullseye 3.3 751 1.570
N100 3.1 752 1.570
Red Dot 3.3 753 1.570
HP-38 3.9 756 1.570
180 Flat Point Clays 3.2 741 1.580
Universal 4.0 746 1.580
Red Dot 3.4 747 1.580
231 4.0 760 1.580
38-40 Pistol
.065 7°
.467 .456 .435
.525 .470 .400
.200 .613
.922
1.003
1.074
1.305
1.592
his cartridge is neither .38 caliber nor did it originally use 40

T grains of black powder. Originally loaded in the 1870s by
Winchester with a 200 grain .40 caliber bullet and 38 grains of black
powder, the cartridge is actually a .40-38. It’s a little confusing and I
suspect that some dyslexic Winchester employee probably got the
38-40 PISTOL
numbers reversed. At any rate, this was at one time a very popular
cartridge, being the third most popular chambering of first generation
Colt Single Action revolvers. Many Winchester and Marlin lever guns
were also chambered for this cartridge. Throughout the years various
ammunition companies have tried to beef up the performance of this
new cartridge with a “carbine only” load. These loads are not safe for
pistols. The loads we show here are safe for modern pistols and car-
bines in good condition.
This is a tapered bottle-necked cartridge that has a reputation of

being somewhat difficult to reload. Cases can sometimes crush if the
resizing process is rushed. Cases can also collapse during bullet seat-
ing if the cartridge case is too long, the bullets are seated beyond the
crimping groove, or if the bullet enters the cartridge case at an odd
angle. Generally, round nose flat point bullets present the least prob-
lems with seating and crimping. Some shooters have reported
reduced seating problems after trimming their cartridge cases to a
uniform length. Bore and chamber mouth diameters vary quite a bit
for this cartridge. You may need to experiment with various bullet
sizes to find the best fit. A bullet that fits the chamber mouth may
not chamber in some revolvers. You may have to compromise on bul-
let size. We recommend using new brass in this cartridge as many
older unsafe balloon head cases are still encountered with the 38-40.
A roll crimp is preferred.

Note: Our test Ruger Blackhawk revolver with 6 1/2" barrel produced
some wickedly high velocities, perhaps due to its particularly tight
cylinder gap and minimum exit bore and groove diameters. These
loads all fall within powder manufacturers’ standards. Your velocities
will likely be lower! We recommend Starline cases for 38-40 and
other obsolete “Cowboy” calibers.
— Gary Morgan
Test Gun: Ruger Blackhawk 6 1/2", WLP
38-40 PISTOL
Cowboy Loads
Minimum
180 Round Nose Flat Point

Red Dot 4.0 754 4.7 845 1.575
231 5.0 801 5.8 910 1.575
Bullseye 4.6 853 5.2 924 1.575
Clays 4.6 825 5.5 925 1.575
Unique 5.9 846 6.5 932 1.575
XMP-5744 11.0 767 14.8 949 1.575
HP-38 5.6 876 6.5 980 1.575
2400 11.3 816 13.0 982 1.575
Titegroup 5.0 902 6.0 1020 1.575
.40 S&W
.045
.055
.424
.424 .347 .400
.200
.850
1.135
everal tragic incidents between lawmen and determined, well-

S armed felons in the early 1980s brought out a need for a better
defensive pistol cartridge. With many well-documented stopping fail-
ures of 9mm/38 Special on record, the Feds knew what didn’t work.
Led by the FBI, they undertook serious, reality-based testing of termi-
.40 S&W
nal ballistics to objectify criteria to replace the flawed and discredited

“computer man” model of the 1970s.
This program led to the conclusion that a 180 grain, .40 caliber bullet
at 970 fps optimized barrier penetration and “stopping power” with
controllability. The FBI adapted a 10mm Norma Smith & Wesson pis-
tol and a reduced 10mm load.
This reduced load gave somewhat inconsistent velocities as a func-

tion of 10mm’s big-capacity case. As well, function problems
appeared in the big Smith autos which were originally rated for heav-
ier loadings. Smith & Wesson teamed with Olin to design a new
round meeting the new performance criteria in a smaller package.
With various 10mm wildcat cartridges as a starting point, they
arrived at .40 S&W and designed a new, higher capacity but smaller-
framed pistol around it — the excellent 4006 series.
.40 took off in popularity. It offers 45 ACP energy in a 9mm P-sized

handgun of good magazine capacity. But, where S&W designed a
purpose-built gun for .40 S&W, other makers of 9mm service-type
pistols got into the market by simply rebarreling and modifying the
breechfaces of their existing models, depending on luck and stiffer
recoil springs to compensate for the greatly increased power factor of
the .40. The feeding characteristics of .40 S&W are poorer than that
of 9mm P, being of similar O.A.L. but larger in diameter. This preclud-
ed manufacturers of 9mm P pistols from using non-intrusive feed
ramps in their .40 S&W versions without considerable redesign.

Thus, many .40 S&W service-type pistols have chambers which don’t
fully support the case wall in the feed ramp area, and may have over-
sized, feeding-friendly chamber dimensions to boot.
Ammo and pistol manufacturers aren’t concerned with reloading

safety or case life, but you are. Factory loads will fire safely from such
guns, one time, but may expand the brass past its safe yield point;
resizing works it further, weakening it more. All Glock .40 S&W pis-
tols as of this writing have large, unsupported chambers, as do other
makes. Examine your barrel and know what you’re dealing with
before you proceed!
.40 S&W is loaded to maximum pressure by most manufacturers.
.40 S&W
Our basic data is adjusted to not exceed the FBI’s original criteria by
power factor. Our unsupported chamber loads have an additional
margin of safety factored in and are maximum for such guns, using
only new or once-fired cases! We cannot recommend reloading
cases fired in pistols with large, unsupported chambers! (See your
gunsmith if you have questions about your gun.)
Best accuracy was achieved with our 170 semi wad cutter Laser-Cast
bullet, with the 38-40 180 round nose flat point a close second. The
180 round nose flat point is seated so the case mouth just meets the
front of its crimp groove, or 1.125" O.A.L. Taper crimp to .420 with
all bullets. Stated overall lengths are minimums. Do not load any
shorter, or dangerous pressures may result! Some .40 S&W pistols
function better with slightly longer O.A.L.s; load up and mark a few
dummy rounds to verify feeding before you proceed.
Owners of Para-Ordnance, STI/SVI or other 1911-type .40 S&W pistols

should refer to the next section.
Test Gun: Entréprise 5", WSP
Standard Loads
Minimum
155 Round Nose Semi Wad Cutter

WST 5.0 970 5.6 1034 1.126
WSL 4.7 1042 5.2 1102 1.126
HP-38 5.0 1045 5.4 1108 1.126
WAP 6.7 1050 7.2 1120 1.126
231 5.0 1045 5.4 1121 1.126
Universal 5.1 1066 5.6 1136 1.135
540 7.1 1076 7.7 1151 1.135
AA5 6.7 1081 7.3 1154 1.135
170 Semi Wad Cutter
.40 S&W
AA5 5.5 926 6.1 998 1.135

WSL 4.3 969 4.7 1022 1.135
WAP 5.8 966 6.2 1025 1.135
HP-38 4.5 962 4.9 1028 1.135
231 4.6 967 5.0 1043 1.135
540 6.5 985 7.0 1050 1.135
Universal 4.6 1000 5.0 1065 1.135
180 Truncated Cone
Clays 3.2 848 3.4 880 1.130
WAP 5.4 814 5.9 884 1.130
WST 4.5 886 5.0 941 1.130
Unique 5.2 895 5.6 949 1.130
Red Dot 4.1 924 4.4 969 1.130
AA5 5.5 885 6.0 945 1.130
HS-6 6.6 908 7.1 973 1.130
Universal 4.7 933 5.1 979 1.130
540 6.2 896 6.9 998 1.130
Caution: These loads are intended for use in pistols with fully supported
chambers ONLY!
Test Gun: Entréprise 5", WSP
Standard Loads
Minimum


WAP 5.4 795 5.8 842 1.122
WST 4.5 886 5.0 941 1.122
Unique 5.2 891 5.6 941 1.122
HS-6 6.6 890 7.1 957 1.122
Universal 4.7 917 5.1 961 1.122
540 6.2 877 6.9 978 1.122
200 Truncated Cone
540 5.5 835 6.0 886 1.135
AA5 4.7 823 5.2 907 1.135
.40 S&W
Unique 4.2 825 4.7 910 1.135
Universal 3.9 832 4.3 912 1.135
HS-6 5.6 842 6.1 915 1.135
Caution: These loads are intended for use in pistols with fully supported
chambers ONLY!
Test Gun: Glock M-22, WSP
Maximum loads for unsupported chamber service pistols

Powder NEVER Velocity Minimum
Type EXCEED FPS OAL
155 Round Nose WST 5.6 1029 1.135

Semi Wad Cutter 231 5.1 1067 1.135
HP-38 5.1 1067 1.135
WAP 7.0 1092 1.135
Universal 5.3 1097 1.135
540 7.3 1101 1.135
AA5 7.0 1108 1.135
170 Semi Wad AA5 5.7 950 1.135
Cutter WSL 4.3 958 1.135
HP-38 4.6 983 1.135
231 4.7 986 1.135
.40 S&W
WAP 5.9 989 1.135

540 6.6 998 1.135
Universal 4.6 1013 1.135
180 Truncated Cone, WAP 5.7 849 1.135*
or Round Nose WST 4.6 884 1.135
Flat Point AA5 5.6 895 1.135
Unique 5.3 918 1.135
540 6.4 922 1.135
HS-6 6.8 934 1.135
Universal 4.8 935 1.135
*To use this load data for our 180 RN FP bullet, seat to minimum OAL of 1.125
Do not exceed these loads in pistols with unsupported chambers; read and
understand text fully before loading.
Be certain your pistol will fully chamber these loads using dummy rounds. Your
pistol should not fire out of battery (slide not fully forward)! Consult your pis-
tols’ manufacturer or a qualified pistol smith to make sure your pistol is safe
before shooting.
.40 S&W Long Loaded
.045
.055
.424

.424 .347 .400
.200
.850
1.165 +
he current emphasis on run and gun stages has compelled many

T USPSA Limited competitors to bypass the 45 ACP for a high capac-
ity .40. They are willing to sacrifice a degree of accuracy, case life
and a margin of safety to cram three more rounds into their maga-
zines. (Perhaps, if having teeth pulled added 5% to our scores, we’d
.40 S&W Long-Loaded

do that too...) Fortunately, .40 S&W loses a lot of its bad bite when
loaded out to overall lengths that function optimally in the various
wide body 1911s. Standard overall length .40 S&W rounds often
won’t run in guns with 45 ACP-length magazines and steep, support-
ed feed ramps. Long loaded .40s operate at a bit less pressure, restor-
ing some case life and safety to the reloader. Caution: Your barrels’
rifling leade must be cut longer to accept these longer overall lengths
reliably. Use dummy rounds to check chambering and function. Be
certain that your pistol will feed and eject long rounds 100%and con-
sult your pistol’s manufacturer or your gunsmith if you have any
doubts before you proceed. DO NOT shorten these overall lengths.
These loads are only to be used in 1911-type pistols with fully sup-
ported chambers. Taper crimp at .420".
Test Gun: Entréprise, 5" Bar-Sto, WSP
Major Power Factor IPSC Loads

170 Semi Wad Cutter

540 6.3 915 7.2 1030 1.170
AA5 6.6 1018 6.7 1035 1.170
180 Flat Point
231 4.3 899 5.0 989 1.190
Universal 5.1 944 5.5 1016 1.190
Titegroup 4.2 960 4.6 1016 1.190
Unique 5.5 941 5.9 1018 1.190
WSL 4.3 918 4.8 1012 1.190
540 6.2 907 7.0 1021 1.190
.40 S&W Long-Loaded
200 Flat Point

Titegroup 3.5 828 3.9 884 1.190
AA5 5.0 841 5.3 886 1.190
HS-6 6.3 884 6.7 940 1.190
N350 5.0 888 5.4 944 1.190
Universal 4.2 860 4.7 951 1.190
Test Gun: Entréprise, 5" Bar-Sto, WSP
Minor Power Factor Action Loads

155 Round Nose/ HP-38 4.9 998 1.165

Semi Wad Cutter Clays 4.0 1000 1.165
231 5.1 1027 1.165
WSL 4.8 1029 1.165
170 Semi Wad Clays 3.5 887 1.170
Cutter WSL 4.6 969 1.170
231 4.8 977 1.170
HP-38 4.6 986 1.170
Caution: Use only in pistols with fully supported chambers!
10mm Auto
.045
.055
.425

.425 .347 .400
.200
.992
1.260
he 10mm Norma Auto was first chambered in the infamous

T Bren 10 pistol of 1983. This was the brainchild of thoughtful
experts who believed an effective defensive pistol round needed to
penetrate a Chrysler Imperial - end to end. Although alternatives like
.400 Cor-Bon are available, 10mm Auto is still the best cartridge
10 MM AUTO
choice when brute force from a 1911-sized pistol is required. Of
course, just what that requirement may be has not been determined,
as full-on 10mm Auto loads are far too powerful for responsible
defensive use or competition. 10mm Auto may be down-loaded to
reasonable levels but its big case yields greater extreme velocity
spreads over comparable .40 S&W or 45 ACP loads. The long case
also makes bullet selection and overall length very critical for reliable
feeding in many pistols.
Despite these shortcomings, 10mm Auto has some advantages too.

Reduced 10mm loads can deliver .40 S&W performance with much
less pressure, greater safety margin and less wear on the gun. Cases
last almost forever with reduced loads. And, for shooters who also
load 45 ACP, the large pistol primer is a major convenience.
Caution: Be sure your pistol will eject loaded rounds — check with
dummies. 10mm’s large primer and relatively small case head create
a potential for accidental firing by contact with the ejector. 10mm
benefits from a fairly heavy taper crimp. For max loads, .4205" to
.4210" is suggested. The reduced major loads listed here give the
closest extreme velocity spreads of those we tested.
Test Gun: Entréprise 1911 frame, 5" Bar-Sto barrel, WLP
Standard Loads
155 Round Nose

Unique 6.5 1093 7.1 1182 1.255
AA5 8.3 1173 9.2 1284 1.255
AA7 10.3 1119 11.5 1254 1.255
HS-6 9.6 1263 10.6 1364 1.255
170 Semi Wad Cutter
231 5.0 1031 5.6 1121 1.250
Unique 6.0 1021 6.7 1130 1.250
AA5 7.6 1041 8.4 1186 1.250
AA7 9.6 1080 10.6 1222 1.250
HS-6 9.0 1149 9.6 1229 1.250
10 MM AUTO
180 Flat Point

Unique 6.1 1015 6.7 1075 1.260
AA7 9.2 991 10.0 1086 1.260
AA5 7.6 1045 8.2 1109 1.260
540 8.2 1132 8.8 1204 1.260
HS-6 8.7 1150 9.2 1205 1.260
200 Flat Point
Universal 4.8 931 5.6 1041 1.260
HS-7 8.2 1006 9.0 1089 1.260
AA9 10.9 1011 11.8 1105 1.260
Reduced Action Load

155 Round Nose Clays 4.4 1017 1.255
IPSC Major Loads

200 Flat Point HP-38 4.8 920 1.260

Universal 4.8 931 1.260
10 MM AUTO
Unique 5.5 937 1.260
700X 4.6 941 1.260
.41 Magnum Pistol
.059
.435
.492 .410
.200
1.290
1.590
his excellent cartridge was introduced in 1965 and promoted by

T the gun press of the day as a ballistically superior alternative to
either 38 Special or .357 Magnum for law enforcement use. Coming
as it did at the dawn of the semi-auto pistol era for John Law, the
.41 Magnum Smith & Wesson M-57 and 58s represented the apex of
.41 MAGNUM PISTOL
revolver development. (The industry was no doubt as proud of the

new cartridge as was Baldwin of their last steam locomotives.)
The heavy N-frame M-58 demanded much more training time for
officer proficiency, while the “Magnum” label became a liability in
the politically poisonous atmosphere of community relations circa
1968. For these reasons, the .41 Magnum didn’t see much popular
acceptance nor development. It’s remained in the shadow of the
44 Magnum amongst sporting shooters. This is unwarranted, given
that the .41 Mag can deliver 85 percent of the 44’s momentum with
a flatter trajectory and much less abusive recoil. Our 215 grain semi
wad cutter requires a fairly heavy crimp and Magnum primer for
maximum performance. Our reduced loads should approximate the
old law enforcement cartridge’s ballistics.
Test Gun: S&W M-57 6 1/2", WLP
Magnum Loads

215 Semi Wad Cutter

H4227 17.9 1076 19.4 1166 1.595
Unique 8.0 1025 10.0 1265 1.595
H110 - DO NOT REDUCE -21.0 1306 1.595
296 19.1 1227 20.6 1325 1.595
2400 18.4 1253 19.6 1336 1.595
HS-7 11.8 1281 13.2 1375 1.595
Caution: Do not reduce maximum H-100 loads more than 3%
.41 MAGNUM PISTOL

Reduced Loads
Powder Maximum Velocity
Type Grains FPS OAL
215 Semi Wad 231 6.5 895 1.595

Cutter Unique 7.6 956 1.595
Titegroup 6.5 973 1.595
Universal 7.5 995 1.595
Bullseye 6.0 997 1.595
Reduce above loads by 10% for starting loads.
44-40 Pistol
4° .458
.065
.469 .446
.525 .471 .427
.200 .653
.928
1.004
1.305
1.592
ntroduced in the 1870s as the original caliber for the Winchester

I 1873 lever action carbine, Colt soon chambered their Single Action
Army for this cartridge as a companion piece to Winchester’s lever
guns. This cartridge was widely used on the frontier and handguns in
44-40 were produced well into the 1940s. This cartridge has enjoyed
44-40 PISTOL
sort of a resurgence among Cowboy shooters and those interested in

traditional calibers.
The 44-40 has a reputation for being somewhat difficult to reload.

The case can be thin and fragile often crushing if run into the resiz-
ing die without due care. The tapered case originally helped the car-
tridge feed through slightly fouled black powder chambers, but
tapered chambers preclude the use of carbide resizing dies.
Sometimes 44-40 cases crush or deform during the seating and
crimping process. Trimming cases to a uniform length may alleviate
this problem. Bore and cylinder throat dimensions vary quite a bit in
this caliber. Some original 1870s guns have bores as tight as .425"
while modern guns should measure .427". If you are unsure about
the safety, lineage or bore diameter of your gun, have a gunsmith
check it out. These loads are intended to be safe in modern guns in
good condition. Watch out for balloon head cases in this caliber.
Many are still floating around. We recommend using only new cases
in 44-40 to avoid this problem. A roll crimp is preferred.
These loads gave us good accuracy and reasonably narrow velocity

spreads; we don’t recommend reducing these starting loads. With
their thin cylinder walls, Colt-type revolvers in 44-40 are not strong
enough for loads exceeding 12,500 CUP standards. Do not increase
these maximum loads in any case.
— Gary Morgan

Test Gun Colt S.A. 5 1/2", CCI large pistol primers
Cowboy Loads
Type Grains FPS Grains FPS

Universal 6.5 676 7.2 731
HP-38 5.5 667 6.5 768
44-40 PISTOL
231 5.5 726 6.4 793
N100 5.0 734 5.3 766
XMP-5744 13.5 705 17.0 873
Titegroup 5.0 749 6.2 897
Unique 6.0 675 8.0 925
Universal 6.5 705 7.0 745
Titegroup 4.6 655 5.6 777
XMP-5744 13.0 695 15.4 780
Unique 6.2 650 7.2 780
231 5.8 684 7.0 838
44 Russian
.965
.511 .429 .454
© Gray
.055
ike the 45 Schofield, this obsolete cartridge has been revived for
L use in reproduction Smith & Wesson copies by Cowboy Action
shooters. It was originally chambered in many of the most elegant
revolvers of the last century, such as Colt’s Bisley and Smith’s
Frontier D.A. The 44 Russian cartridge enjoyed an unrivaled reputa-
44 RUSSIAN
tion for accuracy, being favored by exhibition shooters of the era.

44 Russian is the precursor to 44 Special, is .185" shorter and has
78% of the Special’s seated case capacity. It will chamber correctly in
any 44 Special (or Magnum) revolver; function through carbine
actions may be a problem, however. 44 Russian loads may exhibit
less aspect variation with more consistent velocities compared to
comparable, reduced 44 Special rounds. Modern reproduction top
break revolvers are metallurgically superior to black powder antiques,
but are mechanically identical. Do not exceed these loads in such
Smith & Wesson copies. Roll crimps are preferred. If your crimp die
is too long for the shorter Russian case, a carefully adjusted
.40 S&W/10mm sizer may be substituted to crimp with excellent
results.
Test Gun Smith & Wesson 1950, 6 1/2", WLP
Cowboy Loads

Minimum

Clays 3.2 661 3.7 745 1.230
HP-38 4.2 705 5.0 839 1.230
Red Dot 3.9 776 4.5 848 1.230
Titegroup 3.9 754 4.6 900 1.230
Bullseye 4.4 820 5.0 918 1.230
Unique 5.8 844 6.5 954 1.230
Clays 3.0 661 3.5 712 1.230
44 RUSSIAN
HP-38 4.2 695 4.8 789 1.230
Red Dot 3.7 718 4.1 789 1.230
Bullseye 4.1 784 4.4 834 1.230
Titegroup 3.8 737 4.3 839 1.230
Unique 5.4 814 6.0 881 1.230
Do not exceed these loads! Use only in modern 44 Special/Magnum revolvers or
Smith & Wesson Schofield reproductions in excellent condition. Original Smith
& Wesson Top-Break revolvers should never be fired with smokeless powder
loads!
44 Special Pistol
.060
.457
.514 .430
.200
1.160
1.615
mith & Wesson introduced the 44 Special for their first model
S hand ejector of 1906. Though it’s larger in seated case capacity
than the black powder 44 Russian on which it was based, 44 Special
was always intended for smokeless powder. Despite the large case,
44 Special has proven itself to be a very efficient and accurate round,
44 SPECIAL PISTOL
yielding consistent velocities even with fairly light loads. As with the
case with 38 Special, handloaders saw the potential for improved bal-
listics, leading to the 44 Magnum. Today, 44 Special stands as the
perfect standard-performance compliment to the latter. It’s very suit-
able for Cowboy Action competition, giving more consistent results
with lighter loads than may be had with 44 Magnum or certainly
44–40 while working smoothly through most carbine actions.
For consistent weenie loads out of 44 Special revolvers, use of the

44 Russian case holds some appeal, but in practice the extra bullet
jump seems to negate the advantage of the smaller capacity case.
Our 44 Special start loads were developed with acceptable extreme
velocity spreads and safety in mind; we don’t recommend reducing
them appreciably. If low-recoil shooting and competitiveness are
desired, consider 38 Special. 44 Special requires a moderate roll
crimp for best results. Try the 240 semi wad cutter with Unique or
2400 for full power accuracy work.
Test Gun Smith & Wesson 6", WLP
Standard Loads

240 Semi Wad Cutter
700X 3.9 655 4.5 728 1.480
HP-38 4.3 648 4.9 775 1.480
Unique 6.0 660 6.9 780 1.480
Bullseye 4.0 722 4.4 790 1.480
HS-6 7.1 726 7.6 797 1.480
231 4.5 661 5.4 798 1.480
AA2 4.2 721 4.7 819 1.480
2400 11.4 725 13.2 845 1.480
HS-7 9.1 735 10.4 850 1.480
AA9 9.7 818 10.8 930 1.480
44 SPECIAL PISTOL
Cowboy Loads

Clays 3.5 660 4.1 755 1.425
Red Dot 4.5 749 5.1 841 1.425
HP-38 4.6 735 5.5 855 1.425
Titegroup 4.3 765 5.1 915 1.425
Bullseye 4.8 750 5.5 920 1.425
Unique 6.1 790 7.3 949 1.425
Clays 3.3 650 3.8 704 1.425
Red Dot 4.1 710 4.6 774 1.425
HP-38 4.6 691 5.3 793 1.425
Bullseye 4.5 780 4.8 815 1.425
Titegroup 4.1 723 4.7 830 1.425
Unique 6.1 811 6.8 877 1.425
44 Magnum
1.285
.514 .430 .456
© Gray
.060
o modern handgun round has benefited from more hype nor

N been more exaggerated in popular mythology than 44 Magnum,
“the most powerful handgun in the world…” The shadow cast by its
monolithic popularity has obscured other worthwhile cartridges and
44 Magnum is often promoted for applications perhaps more suited
44 MAGNUM PISTOL
to less powerful rounds. Still, the 44 Magnum rates the praise heaped
upon it. Though other more powerful handgun and revolver car-
tridges have been promoted, the 44 Magnum still puts the most ener-
gy on target at range from a reasonably sized and shootable hand-
gun. In fact, 44 Magnum represents the upper threshold of recoil tol-
erance for most shooters.
44 Magnum is the descendant of heavily-loaded 44 Special experi-

ments and is blessed with much of the latter’s wide load tolerance,
efficiency, and superb accuracy. While designed as a high-horsepower
hunting cartridge, 44 Magnum performs quite well with reasonably
reduced loads in the 900 to 1050 fps range. Of course, Cowboy
Action competitors will want to cut their velocities further and we’ve
worked up some good loadings for our 200 and 225 grain round
nose flat point bullets for the fringe vest and spurs crowd. As with the
other large-capacity revolver rounds, consistency suffers as load den-
sity is decreased below 50% of seated capacity. We don’t recom-
mend reducing our starting loads further. Low-velocity loads will like-
ly not group as well as you’d like, to boot; incomplete obturation of
Laser-Cast bullets may occur at pipsqueak pressures.
Whatever your application, correct bullet sizing is critical to accuracy.
Refer to “Bullet Fit in Revolvers” in Chapter One for suggestions.
44 Magnum revolvers are very competitive in Metallic Silhouette

shooting. When working up to your maximum ram load pay careful

heed to pressure indications. Sticky extraction may present itself
before primers appear excessively flat or cratered, for example. Small
changes in crimp, seated depth or components used may affect accu-
racy and pressure disproportionately; reduce maximum loads at least
5% when changing anything. (Exception: reduce H110 and 296 maxi-
mum loads by 3%.)
Case length will affect crimp values, so sorting brass by manufacturer

and sized length is worthwhile, particularly for maximum accuracy
from full-on Magnum loads.
Please also read the 44 Magnum Rifle and Chapter Four Metallic
Silhouette sections for more information.
44 MAGNUM PISTOL
Use a heavy roll crimp for Magnum loads.
Test Gun: Ruger Super Red Hawk 9 1/2", WLP
Silhouette Loads
240 Semi Wad Cutter

HS-6 10.8 1044 12.0 1170 1.605
HS-7 12.0 1080 14.0 1274 1.605
Unique 10.8 1302 11.7 1349 1.605
AA9 19.8 1334 21.7 1465 1.605
H110 23.4 1423 24.0 1469 1.605
296 22.6 1357 24.3 1515 1.605
2400 19.8 1354 22.4 1525 1.605
Work up to maximum loads carefully.
44 MAGNUM PISTOL
300 Flat Point

2400 13.0 986 16.2 1178 1.610
AA9 16.6 1163 18.5 1300 1.610
296 20.2 1308 1.610
H110 20.0 1333 1.610
Do not reduce H110 or 296 maximum loads more than 3% to start.
Use WLP for all 44 Magnum pistol loads.
Test Gun: Ruger 7 1/2", WLP
Cowboy Loads


Bullseye 4.5 719 6.0 914 1.560
Clays 4.3 690 6.4 972 1.560
HP-38 5.8 783 7.3 985 1.560
XMP-5744 13.0 755 17.0 1025 1.560
231 6.5 878 8.0 1052 1.560
Titegroup 6.3 965 7.1 1055 1.560
Red Dot 6.3 968 7.2 1060 1.560
Bullseye 4.0 633 5.3 801 1.560
44 MAGNUM PISTOL
700X 4.4 716 5.7 874 1.560
XMP-5744 11.5 647 15.2 895 1.560
Clays 4.3 667 6.4 939 1.560
231 5.7 771 6.9 950 1.560
HP-38 5.6 746 7.3 968 1.560
Titegroup 5.7 861 6.7 985 1.560
Red Dot 5.8 865 7.2 1025 1.560
Test Gun: Ruger Super Redhawk 9 1/2", WLP
Reduced Practice Loads

Type Grains FPS OAL
240 Semi Wad International 6.5 963 1.605

Cutter HP-38 7.2 984 1.605
700X 6.5 1003 1.605
Titegroup 7.0 1030 1.605
45 ACP
.035
.049
.476
.480 .400 .452
.200
.898
1.275
ith 80-odd years of successful development, the 1911 pistol and

W 45 ACP cartridge really require no introduction. It remains the
most popular auto pistol round with serious shooters and reloaders
for very good reason. 45 ACP is a well-mannered, relatively low-pres-
sured cartridge with a good safety margin and tremendous case life.
45 ACP
It’s big, easily reloaded and has an unusually wide tolerance for dif-
ferent velocities and bullet weights.
With origins deeply rooted in grand American notions of “bigger is

better” the 45 ACP’s reputation has stood unchallenged amongst pro-
fessionals, despite the advent of powerful alternatives like .400 Cor-
Bon and 10mm Norma. When all’s done, the 45 ACP 1911 throws the
heaviest, largest-caliber chunk of lead with the highest degree of
accuracy and control. This fact, coupled with its loading versatility,
continues to present the 45 ACP as a first choice for many sports. It
dominates NRA Bullseye matches, still wins in IPSC and has even
been used for Metallic Silhouette. If you need to hose down a pin
table, 45 ACP is it. Our loads are intended to cover a broad spectrum
of possible applications and are safe for properly-chambered and
“throated” semi autos or modern revolvers. Overly-deep, amateur
feed ramp throating is a potential hazard; check your pistol’s cham-
ber and see your gunsmith if in doubt. Taper crimp to .470".
Test Gun Entréprise 1911 frame, 5" Bar-Sto barrel, WLP
Standard Loads

180 Semi Wad Cutter
231 4.8 840 5.7 950 1.250
WST 4.0 856 4.7 965 1.250
Unique 5.5 791 7.1 975 1.250
Red Dot 4.4 811 5.3 967 1.250
540 8.0 920 8.6 980 1.250
Bullseye 4.2 840 5.2 983 1.250
WSL 5.0 905 5.6 988 1.250
700X 4.0 770 5.5 1010 1.250
N100 4.7 947 5.1 1027 1.250
Universal 6.6 994 6.9 1057 1.250
45 ACP
200 Semi Wad Cutter
Titegroup 4.2 797 4.7 856 1.250
Red Dot 4.0 731 4.8 871 1.250
Unique 5.0 713 6.4 879 1.250
231 4.8 796 5.8 914 1.250
HP-38 4.5 808 5.6 920 1.250
WST 4.1 849 4.7 920 1.250
WSL 4.5 793 5.2 923 1.250
Bullseye 4.2 794 5.2 933 1.250
Universal 6.0 815 6.7 963 1.250
700X 4.4 823 5.4 968 1.250
225 Flat Point
Titegroup 3.9 680 4.3 768 1.205
WSL 4.2 685 4.8 750 1.205
Unique 5.0 680 5.8 750 1.205
Red Dot 4.1 747 4.5 815 1.205
HP-38 4.8 722 5.3 820 1.205
Universal 5.4 700 5.9 825 1.205
WST 3.9 785 4.3 829 1.205
231 4.5 728 5.1 830 1.205
700X 4.0 740 4.8 837 1.205
Bullseye 4.5 800 5.1 865 1.205
Test Gun Entréprise 1911 frame, 5" Bar-Sto barrel, WLP
Standard Loads
230 Round Nose

WSL 4.2 706 4.8 772 1.260
Unique 5.0 700 5.8 778 1.260
Titegroup 3.9 701 4.3 783 1.260
Red Dot 4.1 760 4.5 828 1.260
231 4.5 728 5.1 830 1.260
HP-38 4.8 742 5.3 841 1.260
Universal 5.4 714 5.9 844 1.260
WST 3.9 800 4.3 845 1.260
700X 4.0 755 4.8 852 1.260
Bullseye 4.5 819 5.1 887 1.260
45 ACP
IPSC Major Loads

200 Semi Wad 700X 5.0 901 1.250

Cutter Bullseye 5.0 905 1.250
HP-38 5.5 908 1.250
231 5.7 918 1.250
230 Round Nose 700X 4.2 782 1.260
231 4.9 796 1.260
Bullseye 4.5 819 1.260
HP-38 5.2 822 1.260
IPSC Heavy-Bullet Major Loads + P

250 Round Nose Clays 3.3 700 1.168
Flat Point Titegroup 3.8 725 1.168
Solo 1000 3.5 733 1.168
Bullseye 3.9 735 1.168
Unique 5.0 745 1.168
Use the above loads exactly as listed.
These are MAXIMUM loads - Do not exceed charges, or shorten overall lengths.
Do not fire these loads in pre-1950 revolvers. For use in pistols with fully
supported chambers only.
45 ACP
NRA Bullseye Loads - 25 Yard Line
200 Semi Wad Bullseye 3.6 701 1.250

Cutter 231 4.4 718 1.250
HP-38 4.1 726 1.250
NRA Bullseye Loads - 50 Yard Line

200 Semi Wad Bullseye 4.2 794 1.250

Cutter 231 4.8 796 1.250
HP-38 4.4 798 1.250
45 Auto Rim
.089
.476
.516 .452
.200
.898
1.275
his nifty, cleverly-designed case was invented to allow owners of

T surplus M-1917 Colt or Smith & Wesson service revolvers to shoot
them free of the torture of jerking around with half-moon clips.
45 Auto Rim is simply a thick-rimmed version of 45 ACP, has similar
case capacity and yields identical ballistics. Since it headspaces more
45 AUTO RIM
positively than ACP cases with clips, using 45 Auto Rim will improve
primer ignition and accuracy in these revolvers.
45 Auto Rim is a good, strong case which cannot be loaded to full

potential due to the relatively thin cylinder walls of the various
revolvers chambered for it. Furthermore, a distinction must be made
between the old M-1917s, converted Webleys or Brazilian contract
Smith & Wessons, and modern Smiths such as M-25-2s, 1950 or
1955s and M-625s. The old, pre-1950 Smith & Wesson or Colt
M–1917s must not be fired with any loads which exceed those listed
as “STANDARD LOADS” in our 45 ACP section and in truth should be
reserved for use with reduced loads as found in the left column of
that section to be safe and preserve their value. As for converted
(I would say “ruined”) Webley revolvers, the 45 ACP cartridge is rated
for higher pressure than the .455 Eley and such sadly butchered
relics of Britain’s faded glory must be fired only with such reduced
loads, if at all!
Though by no means of Magnum strength, with superior metallurgy

the modern Smith & Wesson revolvers should handle moderate +P
loads which do not exceed 19,900 C.U.P., though a steady diet of
such heavy loads is not recommended. Our Max. 45 ACP load data is
safe for these guns, though service life will definitely be extended
with reduced loads in these modern revolvers as well. M-25 and 625
Smith & Wessons are deservedly popular with bowling pin shooters,
for whose sport these +P pin loads are designed. These +P revolver

loads may be duplicated in ACP cases for use with moon clips. They
are only to be fired in modern revolvers in excellent condition, and
should be loaded in new or once-fired cases; roll crimping is
required. For loads adapted from our 45 ACP data using bullets with-
out a crimp groove, a fairly heavy taper crimp should be applied to
prevent bullet jump under recoil.
45 AUTO RIM
Test Gun Smith & Wesson 1955 6", WLP
+ P Pin Loads
250 Round Nose Unique 6.1 900 1.170

Flat Point HS-6 8.5 925 1.170
HS-7 9.2 905 1.170
800X 6.2 840 1.170
Blue Dot 8.9 895 1.170
255 Semi Wad 800X 6.2 863 1.200
Cutter Universal 5.8 868 1.200
HS-6 8.5 899 1.200
HS-7 9.2 910 1.200
Unique 6.2 910 1.200
Blue Dot 8.9 915 1.200
These are maximum loads — do not increase these charges!
45 Schofield
1.095
.520 .454 .478
© Gray
.060
(max)
ntroduced in 1875, this black powder revolver cartridge was used in

I an Army version of Smith & Wesson’s top break revolver. Long
obsolete, 45 Schofield brass has once again become available for use
in the reproduction top break Smith & Wesson revolvers found on the
hips of Cowboy Action shooters.
45 SCHOFIELD
The Schofield case measures 1.1" long, nominally. Practically,

45 Schofield may be compared to 45 Colt in somewhat the same way
as 44 Special to 44 Magnum (the obvious difference being
44 Magnum runs at twice the pressure.) 45 Schofield has about 80%
seated case capacity of the big 45 Colt. A down side to 45 Colt is its
tendency to produce inconsistent velocities with reduced loads. It fol-
lows that comparable 45 Schofield loads will be more consistent,
with tighter extreme velocity spreads and less aspect variation. The
extra .175" bullet jump may negate this, however. Chronograph dif-
ferent loads in your revolvers to find out what works best for you.
Original 45 Schofield Smith & Wessons are strictly black powder
only! Modern reproductions of Smith & Wesson top breaks may be
metallurgically superior, but are no stronger by design; load for them
as if they were 120-year old guns. These loads are safe in modern
reproduction Schofield top break revolvers, and should meet the
650 fps velocity floor for Cowboy shooting. Use a roll crimp into the
crimp groove of our 200 grain round nose flat point bullets. These
loads are designed specifically for use in Smith & Wesson reproduc-
tions for Cowboy Action competition. Slug cylinder and measure
groove diameter of your revolver; for best results use bullets sized at
or .001" over groove diameter.
Test Gun: Smith & Wesson 6", WLP
Cowboy Loads

200 Round Nose/ HP-38 5.0 745 1.39
Flat Point Clays 4.9 767 1.39
Red Dot 6.0 849 1.39
Titegroup 6.0 873 1.39
700X 6.1 889 1.39
231 5.5 890 1.39
N100 5.4 890 1.39
Do not exceed these loads! Use only in modern .45 Colt revolvers or S&W
Schofield reproductions in excellent condition. Original S&W top break revolvers
should never be fired with smokeless powder loads!
45 SCHOFIELD
45 Colt (Standard & Cowboy Loads)
.060
.480
.512 .454
.200
1.285
1.600
he 45 Colt has been produced continuously since 1874, longer

T than any other handgun cartridge. It was the most powerful
revolver round available in North America until 1935’s .357 Magnum.
The Colt S.A.A. in 45 Colt was the pre-emptorate revolver of its day
and stands as the most recognizable symbol of our western heritage,
45 COLT
thus its continued popularity among the Cowboy Action crowd. With
its romanticized history, 45 Colt will persist forever, limitations and
caveats not withstanding.
Early Magnum experiments lead by Elmer Keith found the perfor-

mance envelope of the 45 Colt to be greatly limited by the strength
of the thin cylinder walls of the old S.A.A. and New Service revolvers
of the time. Flying cylinder fragments and blown-off loading gates
compelled this unusually brave man to abandon 45 Colt in favor of
smaller calibers for such high-pressured excursions. Modern versions
of old designs are to be regarded as little stronger; do not depend on
modern metallurgy for your safety margin! (See the next section for
loads appropriate for Ruger revolvers.)
These loads deliver reasonably tight extreme velocity spreads from

the big 45 Colt case; we don’t recommend reducing these start loads
further. Those Cowboy shooters wishing to become more competitive
would be better served with a brace of good 38 Special revolvers
which will yield much more consistent results at pokey velocities.
45 Colt should be lubed before sizing to avoid damage to its small

rim. A solid roll crimp is required.
Test Gun: Vaquero 4 3/4", WLP
Standard Velocity/Cowboy Loads



HP-38 6.2 680 7.2 800 1.575
Clays 4.7 661 5.9 805 1.575
Unique 6.8 721 7.8 835 1.575
Bullseye 4.9 692 6.2 874 1.575
XMP-5744 15.2 760 18.2 909 1.575
231 6.5 787 7.9 913 1.575
700X 5.6 798 6.8 941 1.575
Red Dot 5.8 795 7.2 948 1.575
Titegroup 5.5 743 7.4 966 1.575
45 COLT
AM Select 4.9 648 5.3 717 1.580
HP-38 6.3 654 7.0 735 1.580
Bullseye 4.7 659 5.4 754 1.580
231 6.3 693 7.2 801 1.580
Solo 1000 5.6 702 6.2 804 1.580
Red Dot 5.2 729 6.0 811 1.580
XMP-5744 13.0 667 15.2 825 1.580
Titegroup 5.2 722 6.3 839 1.580
Unique 6.7 708 8.1 842 1.580
700X 5.4 775 6.4 875 1.580
These loads are safe for use in Colt SAA and clones.
45 Colt (Ruger only)
.060
.480
.512 .454
.200
1.285
1.600
uger revolvers can safely handle uprated 45 Colt loads, which

R while not quite Magnum level are suitable for many heavy-bullet
applications like Metallic Silhouette. They are a bit more pleasant to
shoot than comparable 44 Magnum rounds and are accurate.
45 COLT FOR RUGER
Our 4 3/4" Vaquero test gun yielded velocities well below what you
can expect from long barreled guns; we used it to determine worst-
case performance characteristics from these slow powders.
Caution: Use these loads for Ruger revolvers and TC pistols in excel-
lent condition only. These loads are unsafe in other, Colt-type single
actions or Smith & Wesson revolvers. If in doubt, do not use these
loads in your gun and consult a qualified gunsmith or manufacturer.
Mark your .45 Colt +P loads to avoid disastrous confusion! These

loads benefit from a heavy roll crimp.
Test Gun: Vaquero 4 3/4", WLP
Silhouette Loads

255 Semi Wad Cutter

296 18.9 831 19.8 907 1.595
H110 — DO NOT REDUCE —19.2 932 1.595
2400 16.0 907 17.5 1009 1.595
700X 6.3 865 8.0 1023 1.595
Unique 7.6 825 10.1 1039 1.595
HS-7 12.5 907 14.5 1073 1.595
45 COLT FOR RUGER

300 Grain Silhouette Loads
300 Flat Point 296 17.0 855 1.570

H110 16.5 865 1.570
AA9 15.0 866 1.570
2400 15.2 909 1.570
HS-7 12.5 961 1.570
Reduce 300 Flat Point charges 3% to start.
These are maximum loads.
Caution - These loads are intended for Ruger revolvers and T/C pistols only!
These loads will produce higher velocities when fired in long-barreled revolvers
and pistols for which they are intended.
110
Chapter 3
Rifle Loading
Data
112
30 M1
.033
.050 .339
.355 .336
RIFLE LOADING DATA

.360 .310 .308
.200 .670
.982
1.290
1.680
T he 30 M1 cartridge is successful only on the merits of the zippy

carbines chambered for it. The M1 carbine was developed as a
more combat-effective alternative to the 1911 .45 caliber sidearm for
World War II-era officers and support troops. As such, it was found to
be handy and serviceable if underpowered. An M2 selective fire ver-
30 M1
sion was issued as a sort of stopgap assault rifle but proved ineffec-
tive for that reason. The 30 M1 cartridge can’t be considered for
applications which exceed the capability of a light-bullet .357 Magnum.
Given the limited accuracy potential of the 30 M1 carbine, this

gun/cartridge is largely left to the province of the shooter-collector, or
the master plinker (an activity for which the neat M1 carbine is ideal-
ly suited). A number of handguns have been chambered for the
30 M1, intended as companion sidearms for the M1 and to exploit
the vast quantities of 30 M1 surplus ammo available. The cartridge is
capable of decent accuracy in a good firearm. With its very long,
tippy, small diameter case, 30 M1 can be hard to load on progressive
presses; patience is demanded. Use moderate case mouth flare and
taper crimp .002" under case neck diameter. Generally .30 carbines
require a minimum 1425 fps for reliable semi-auto function. Small
rifle primers are required.
Test Gun: Winchester M1, 18", WSR
Carbine Loads
RIFLE LOADING DATA
115 Round Nose

540 6.1 1212 7.1 1389 1.660
Unique 5.8 1398 6.3 1468 1.660
HS-7 7.4 1408 8.2 1503 1.660
2400 10.5 1642 11.5 1691 1.660
H110 12.9 1756 13.6 1822 1.660
296 13.0 1779 14.0 1865 1.660
AA9 12.6 1820 13.2 1866 1.660
30 M1
30-30 Winchester
.063 .403
.420 15° 39' .375
.506 .421 .308
RIFLE LOADING DATA

.200 1.150
1.441
Headspace .487
1.562
2.039
2.550
T he 30 WCF of 1895 was the first American sporting rifle cartridge

designed for smokeless powder and was chambered in the slick
new Winchester 1894 rifle. As such, this classic combination became
immediately popular with game hunters, whose irrational love for
this marginally-performing round was conferred by the convenient,
30-30 WINCHESTER
effective and shootable carbines made for it. Many ballistically superi-
or lever-action rounds have been marketed over the ensuing 103
years without turning the heads of these loyal adherents.
In modern times, the 30-30 has continued to be a most popular

sporting cartridge. On the strength of its reputation, makers like
Savage and Marlin de-emphasized their better proprietary cartridges
while offering 30-30’s to the wool shirt and duck boot crowd. The
30–30 has been developed as an outstanding single shot pistol car-
tridge. Its long case neck, heavy rim and smallish capacity (for a rifle
cartridge) make it easy to reload and very suitable for cast-bullet
shooting. 30-30 is legal for Cowboy Action long range rifle events; our
170 flat point is designed for this application. Our bullet will accept a
gas check; we recommend the Lyman “snap-ons,” though crimp-on
gas checks may be used with a proper luber-sizer (sans lubricant).
Apply a slight case mouth flare to aid seating, and return with a mod-
erate crimp. Best accuracy will be achieved at velocities in the 1200
to 1400 fps range. These loads were tested without using gas checks.
Gas checks will raise pressure, so work up from start loads very care-
fully! Use a chronograph to verify your results as they may vary from
ours.
Test Gun Winchester model 94, 20" barrel, WLR
Rifle Loads
RIFLE LOADING DATA
170 Flat Point

700X 6.0 1131 7.0 1233 2.530
Unique 7.0 1148 10.0 1443 2.530
H4198 14.0 1312 16.0 1449 2.530
IMR 4895 18.0 1257 21.6 1476 2.530
H110 12.5 1391 13.3 1482 2.530
XMP-5744 17.8 1654 20.1 1813 2.530
IMR 3031 23.1 1626 26.2 1838 2.530
30-30 WINCHESTER
32-20 Rifle
5° 42'
.065
.352 .343 .332
.408 .354 .313
RIFLE LOADING DATA

.200 .645
.881
.933
1.315
1.592
I n the black powder era, thirty caliber was considered small-bore for
a rifle or pistol. The 32-20 was brought forth for Winchester’s
M–1873 rifles and carbines to fill the needs of small game and fur
hunters looking for less meat damage and a smaller “hole.” The very
accurate and efficient 32-20 was very successful in this role, and it
32-20 RIFLE
remains popular with some single-shot varmint hunters for these rea-
sons.
The 32-20 can also “ring” a plate as well as the larger calibers and
has a following amongst the cowboy crowd.
Our 32-20 115 grain flat point will load to 1.545" overall length, short
enough to cycle through lever actions and chamber in most all
revolver cylinders. Measure your cylinder bore and groove diameter(s)
to find the right sizing for you. Newer guns have tighter bores, while
a few original Colts we’ve examined ran .313" plus.
Lube your cases before resizing and take your time to avoid misalign-
ment or crushing problems. Your expander “ball” shouldn’t be too
small — about .003" under bullet diameter is enough.
Be sure your old original gun is 100 percent safe to shoot with
smokeless loads. Consult a good gunsmith if in any doubt! Roll crimp
moderately. These loads may be used with small pistol primers.
Test Gun: Winchester M-92 22", WSR
Cowboy Loads
RIFLE LOADING DATA

Universal 3.2 875 4.0 1040 1.545
700X 2.8 950 3.9 1185 1.545
231 3.5 1135 4.0 1188 1.545
Red Dot 3.6 1040 4.1 1193 1.545
Green Dot 4.0 1150 4.5 1225 1.545
HP-38 3.9 1090 4.4 1245 1.545
Unique 5.0 1283 5.5 1392 1.545
2400 8.5 1289 9.0 1379 1.545
32-20 RIFLE
.357 Magnum Rifle
.060
.379
.440 .358
RIFLE LOADING DATA

.200
1.290
1.590
A good .357 Magnum carbine is optimal for Cowboy Action shoot-

ing. This caliber, taken together with 38 Special, offers light
recoil, ease and economy of reloading and excellent accuracy poten-
tial. The task of finding one load suitable for both revolvers and car-
bine is made simpler by a number of factors attending this caliber:
.357 MAGNUM RIFLE

with stiffer barrels, .357 Magnum carbines are generally less load
sensitive compared to larger-bore versions. The rifling plans of large
bore carbines tend to best stabilize heavy bullets at 90% of maxi-
mum velocity for a given caliber. .357s are more tolerant of different
bullet weights. As well, carbines in .357 Magnum exhibit tighter bore
and groove tolerances, particularly when compared to those in obso-
lete black powder cartridges like 44-40 whether original or reproduc-
tion. Thus, the competitive cowboy has a fair chance of finding one
load suitable for both revolvers and longarm.
Use our .357 Magnum “Cowboy Load” pistol data as a starting point
for your carbine. Any 38 Special pistol loads using 125 truncated
cone, 158 semi wad cutter, or 158 round nose flat point bullets are
also suitable.
Expect velocity increases of 125 to 175 fps over those listed for pistol
loads. For Cowboy Shooting, 38 Special rounds usually function
through most lever actions; a good gunsmith can tweak and massage
the errant example. Best accuracy is likely to be had with Magnum
cases, though the difference won’t be seen on the generous plates
and moderate ranges encountered at such matches.
Caution: Do not use 38 Special cases with any .357 Magnum pistol
or rifle data! Dangerous pressures will be developed.
Never load round-nosed or pointed bullets for use in any tubular-

magazine fed firearm! Primer detonation under recoil and ensuing
disaster will result!
RIFLE LOADING DATA
These loads are specifically designed for maximum performance

from .357 Magnum rifles and long-barreled single-shot pistols. Use
small Magnum primers where indicated. A light roll crimp is all that’s
required for cowboy loads adapted from pistol data. These Magnum-
level rifle loads benefit from a heavy roll crimp.
(See .357 Magnum pistol data section for more information.) While
safe, these loads are not intended for use in revolvers.
Test Gun: Marlin 18 1/2", R 1 1/2

.357 MAGNUM RIFLE
Magnum Rifle Loads

125 Truncated Cone

Bullseye 3.5 1028 5.5 1378 1.590
Unique 4.0 962 8.0 1669 1.590
VV N350 5.0 1047 8.8 1680 1.590
Blue Dot 8.0 1342 11.5 1816 1.590
IMR 4227* 13.0 1464 18.0 1816 1.590
2400 12.0 1647 16.0 1867 1.590
296 — DO NOT REDUCE —18.0 1875 1.590
H110 18.5 1917 19.0 1957 1.590
*Use WSR for IMR 4227 loads
Do not reduce H110/296 start loads!
Apply heavy roll crimp to magnum loads
Magnum Rifle Loads
RIFLE LOADING DATA

158 Semi Wad Cutter/Round Nose Flat Point (see note)
Bullseye 3.5 954 5.5 1284 1.600
VV N350 6.0 1213 7.4 1402 1.610
AA9 10.0 1378 12.0 1575 1.610
296 13.0 1522 14.0 1591 1.600
H110 13.7 1538 14.1 1570 1.610
2400 10.0 1378 13.0 1593 1.600
IMR 4227* 10.0 1133 16.0 1614 1.610
Blue Dot 7.0 1149 10.3 1626 1.610
Note: Use 1.575 OAL for Round Nose Flat Point
180 Flat Point
.357 MAGNUM RIFLE

Unique 4.0 937 6.0 1219 1.610
VV N350 6.0 1165 6.5 1245 1.610
IMR 4227* 10.0 1093 13.0 1352 1.610
AA9 8.0 1091 11.0 1413 1.610
Blue Dot 6.0 994 9.3 1435 1.610
H110 13.0 1466 13.4 1501 1.610
2400 8.0 1127 12.0 1506 1.610
296 13.0 1502 13.7 1554 1.610
*Use WSR for IMR 4227 loads
Do not reduce H110/296 start loads!
38-55 Winchester
.063 .394
.425
.506 .377
RIFLE LOADING DATA
.200 1.813
2.085
2.510
O ut of the miasma of proprietary medium bore sporting cartridges

offered in the late 1800s, this fine old number is the most suc-
cessful survivor. Every major rifle maker of the late black powder era
made guns for it. Winchester even chambered their Model 1894 lever
action repeating rifle for this cartridge for times when the 30-30 was-
38-55 WINCHESTER
n’t quite enough. 38-55 became such a standard that no less than
eight other rifle cartridges were developed directly from it!
Long obsolete, Winchester introduced a new higher pressured off-

spring, the 375 Winchester, in modern versions of the Model 94 lever
gun. 375 Winchester is about one tenth of an inch (.1") shorter in
case length, but factory loads run at considerably higher pressure. Do
not shoot factory 375 Winchester loads in any rifle chambered for
38-55! In a pinch, 375 Winchester cases could be used safely and
accurately in some 38-55 rifles; maintain these overall lengths and
reduce maximum loads by 3% to be safe.
Velocity ratings for the 38-55 have varied over the many years since
1884. Our data falls well within black powder ballistics but should not
be used for old original black powder rifles, particularly Ballard or
Stevens guns. These loads are safe for modern smokeless powder
repeating or single shot rifles in good condition. When loading, use
an expander plug of no less than .372". Roll crimp moderately over
the first lube groove; for .375 Winchester cases crimp over the sec-
ond lube groove. Use only modern cases of known origin; all old
brass is suspect.
Test Gun: Winchester M-94 20", WLR
Long-Range Rifle Loads

Type Grains FPS EXCEED FPS
RIFLE LOADING DATA

240 Flat Point Flat Base 377
Unique 8.0 1108 10.7 1305
2400 13.8 1222 16.5 1485
H4198 20.0 1149 24.5 1502
IMR 3031 29.0 1489 31.8 1607
H4895 30.0 1413 32.5 1641
H4895 — — 34.0 1691
Do not reduce these starting loads
Use these in modern rifles only.
38-55 WINCHESTER
38-40 Rifle
.065 7°
.467 .456 .435
.525 .470 .400

RIFLE LOADING DATA
.200 .613
.922
1.003
1.074
1.305
1.592
D uring the black powder era, 38-40 remained quite popular as a

carbine chambering. Old loadings gave a few bits better velocity
with flatter trajectory and less recoil compared to heavier caliber
numbers. Its steeply tapered, bottle-necked case design was a big
plus, feeding smoothly through dirty actions and fouled chambers
38-40 RIFLE
that would jam with a straight-cased round. Our borrowed M-92 test
carbine feeds and loads perfectly.
As is the case with revolvers, 38-40 carbines will vary in bore and
groove dimensions. While less load sensitive than 45 Colt, some
experimenting with various powers and charges will pay off in good
groups. 38-40 is generally efficient and tolerant.
We tested the same maximum loads developed for our 38-40 pistol
data; refer to that section for starting loads. Do not reduce these start
loads further! Take care in bullet seating and pay close attention to
case length and crimp. A fair roll crimp is all that’s required for these
loads, excepting 2400 and XMP-5744. Use a more solid roll crimp for
them to promote consistent ignition. (Refer to 38-40 Pistol section for
more information.)
Test Gun: Winchester M-92 20", WLP
Cowboy Loads
RIFLE LOADING DATA

180 Round Nose Red Dot 4.7 965 1.575
Flat Point 231 5.8 1018 1.575
Bullseye 5.2 1027 1.575
Clays 5.5 1036 1.575
Unique 6.5 1063 1.575
HP-38 6.5 1088 1.575
2400 13.0 1101 1.575
XMP-5744 14.5 1134 1.575
Titegroup 6.0 1168 1.575
These are maximum loads. Do not increase charges.
These loads are intended for modern smokeless-powder rifles in good condition.
38-40 RIFLE
Do not fire these in black-powder/antique guns!
.41 Magnum Rifle
.059
.435
.492 .410
RIFLE LOADING DATA
.200
1.290
1.590
W e are indebted to Dr. Greg Mushial, whose interest in lever

action rifles compelled him to test a wide spectrum of loadings
for inclusion in the Laser-Cast manual.
As a carbine round, .41 Magnum is efficient and capable of tremen-

dous accuracy; .41 Magnum will do nearly the work of 44 Magnum to
.41 MAGNUM RIFLE
which it must inevitably be compared. Marlin’s micro-groove rifles

tend to be load sensitive but shoot our 215 semi wad cutter very well
once the right load is determined through experimentation.
Caution: your .41 Magnum lever action rifle shouldn’t be considered

as stronger than a modern revolver of identical caliber. Do not
exceed these loads! Work up to maximums in careful increments,
paying slavish attention to pressure indications. Use a moderately
heavy roll crimp and a Magnum primer where noted.
Test Gun: Marlin 20", WLP
Magnum Rifle Loads

RIFLE LOADING DATA

215 SWC
Bullseye 3.0 691 7.0 1278 1.590
231 4.0 770 8.0 1308 1.590
Unique 6.0 1063 9.7 1441 1.590
IMR 4227 15.0 1190 19.0 1448 1.590
AA7 9.0 1071 13.0 1469 1.590
Blue Dot 9.0 1131 13.0 1567 1.590
AA9 12.0 1256 16.0 1576 1.590
HS-7 10.0 1232 13.2 1551 1.590
296 19.1 1568 20.0 1621 1.590
2400 12.0 1209 18.0 1659 1.590
.41 MAGNUM RIFLE

Do not reduce this 296 start load!
44-40 Rifle
4° .458
.065
.469 .446
.525 .471 .427

RIFLE LOADING DATA
.200 .653
.928
1.004
1.305
1.592
M ost revolver loadings will gain between 180 and 300 fps veloci-
ty when fired from your 20" barrel carbine, with the greater
increases generated by slower powders. For Cowboy shooting, finding
a single load that performs optimally from (both) revolvers and your
carbine is obviously desirable, but may not be feasible. Particularly in
44-40, groove diameters in carbines and cylinder exit vs. groove
44-40 RIFLE
diameters in revolvers all may vary widely, from .426" to .430" in

some guns we’ve examined. As well, your revolvers require loads that
shoot to point of aim, usually limiting them to a given bullet weight
— whereas some carbine rifling plans are very picky as to what
weight bullet they will stabilize at a given velocity. We tested identical
loads in both revolver and carbine to help you, but considerable mea-
surement and experimentation may yet be required for you to obtain
the results you seek!
Lube well before sizing, and roll crimp solidly.
Caution: Use only round nose flat point bullets in your tube-fed car-
bine or rifle. Use of pointed or round nose bullets may cause acciden-
tal discharge with disastrous results and injury. Do not use these
loads in any black powder era firearm. If in doubt consult your gun-
smith. (See 44-40 Pistol section for more information.)
Test Gun Marlin 24", CCI large pistol primers
Cowboy Loads
Type Grains FPS Grains FPS
RIFLE LOADING DATA

200 Flat Point
HP-38 5.5 871 6.5 1009
Universal 6.5 886 7.0 1010
W 231 5.5 968 6.4 1037
Titegroup 5.0 1004 6.2 1062
Unique 6.0 926 8.0 1119
XMP-5744 13.5 947 17.0 1159
225 Flat Point
Universal 6.5 856 7.0 959
Unique 5.2 830 7.2 1023
44-40 RIFLE
Titegroup 4.6 876 5.6 1024
XMP-5744 13.0 926 15.4 1035
W 231 5.8 912 7.0 1101
These loads are intended for modern rifles. Do not fire in black-powder/antique
guns!
44 Special Rifle
.060
.457
.514 .430
RIFLE LOADING DATA
.200
1.160
1.615
U se of 44 Special in carbines will be of interest to Cowboy

Shooters looking to find a single round for both pistol and long
gun. Most 44 Magnum lever actions will run Specials reliably, and any
accuracy loss due to extra bullet jump from the shorter case will like-
ly not be noticed when engaging metal targets at typical Cowboy
44 SPECIAL RIFLE
Action distances. (For maximum accuracy with moderately reduced

loads, 44 Magnum cases may be necessary.)
We tested our best-performing pistol loads from a Marlin 24"-bar-

reled rifle to give you a good place to start. For a given 44 Special
load using pistol powders like HP-38 or Titegroup, expect your car-
bine to generate 125 to 175 fps over revolver velocities. (See
44 Special pistol text for more information.) Use a moderate roll
crimp with these loads.
Cowboy Loads
RIFLE LOADING DATA

HP-38 5.0 864 5.6 972 1.425
Universal 6.0 872 6.5 972 1.425
231 5.1 886 5.6 976 1.425
Bullseye 5.0 958 5.5 1048 1.425
Unique 6.3 997 7.1 1101 1.425
Clays 3.3 745 3.8 829 1.425
HP-38 4.6 803 5.3 914 1.425
Bullseye 4.5 877 4.8 940 1.425
44 SPECIAL RIFLE
Titegroup 4.1 833 4.7 965 1.425
240 Semi Wad Cutter
HP-38 4.3 787 5.1 907 1.480
231 4.5 810 5.2 915 1.480
Titegroup 4.2 815 4.8 930 1.480
Unique 6.0 860 6.9 960 1.480
44 Magnum
1.285
.514 .430 .456

RIFLE LOADING DATA
© Gray
.060
T his section has something to offer anyone with a 44 Magnum car-

bine. This most popular of heavy caliber handgun rounds has had
a wide assortment of rifle types and makes made for it and some
peculiarities of each should be addressed.
Soon after 44 Magnum’s introduction in 1955, many gunsmiths set to

44 MAGNUM RIFLE
rebarreling old M-92 Winchesters for it. With maximum factory loads
operating at over 35,000 CUP, 44 Magnum generates several times the
pressure of black powder-era cartridges like 44-40 for which these M-
92s were originally chambered. A legitimate debate over the relative
safety of such conversions ensued, with the conclusion reached that
converted M-92s should only be fired with reduced loads in the 44
Special class. The author has examined several sprung receivers from
such guns, enough to be both convinced of the wisdom of reduced
loads and saddened at the waste of original, valuable guns.
The Winchester 94AE and Marlin’s excellent 1894 are both strong
enough to handle any 44 Magnum load in this book. Still, modern
guns will last longer if treated kindly with reduced loads. We recom-
mend reserving Magnum-level loads for those applications where
maximum energy and penetration are required. In any event, no
44 Magnum lever action rifle should be considered stronger than the
best revolvers. Do not exceed these loads!
Lever guns are load sensitive by design; with thin-walled barrels sup-
porting a magazine tube and fore-end they make a black art of pre-
dicting effects of heat and vibration on grouping. Expect to spend
time experimenting with different powders through a range of veloci-
ties to find out what shoots best from your gun.
Ruger semi-auto carbines are sensitive to bullet shape/OAL and pow-

der burning rates. They were designed to function with full-power,
jacketed-bullet ammunition. We recommend loading with medium or
RIFLE LOADING DATA

slow-burning powders for use in Ruger carbines. For reduced-velocity
loads, median charges of Unique or HS-6 should work. Do not use
maximum loads of fast pistol powders in these guns. We like the Lee
Factory Crimp die for semi-auto loads.
All 44 Magnum loads require a heavy roll crimp, particularly so for

heavier bullets and slower powders.
Know your barrel’s groove diameter before ordering bullets in bulk,

at or .001" over.
44 MAGNUM RIFLE
Cowboy Loads
Minimum

Clays 4.3 865 6.4 1147 1.580
HP-38 5.8 958 7.3 1160 1.580
231 6.5 1053 8.0 1227 1.580
Titegroup 6.3 1155 7.1 1245 1.580
Red Dot 6.3 1158 7.2 1250 1.580
700X 5.0 1014 7.0 1259 1.580
XMP-5744 13.0 995 17.0 1265 1.580
Bullseye 4.0 820 8.0 1327 1.580
Cowboy Loads
Minimum
RIFLE LOADING DATA

Bullseye 4.0 808 5.3 976 1.585
700X 4.4 901 5.7 1059 1.585
Clays 4.3 842 6.4 1114 1.585
231 5.7 946 6.9 1115 1.585
XMP-5744 11.5 887 15.2 1135 1.585
HP-38 5.6 921 7.3 1143 1.585
Titegroup 5.7 1051 6.7 1175 1.585
Red Dot 5.8 1055 7.2 1215 1.585
44 MAGNUM RIFLE
Rifle Loads
Minimum
240 Semi Wad Cutter

Bullseye 3.0 600 5.0 927 1.610
231 4.0 730 8.0 1208 1.610
AA2 5.0 894 8.9 1308 1.610
Unique 6.0 940 10.0 1371 1.610
HS-7 10.0 1080 13.0 1397 1.610
AA7 10.0 1015 14.0 1420 1.610
VV 3N37 11.3 1390 12.0 1468 1.610
VV N350 11.3 1394 12.0 1477 1.610
Blue Dot 10.0 1094 16.0 1615 1.610
2400 16.0 1363 20.0 1618 1.610
VV N110 19.6 1644 20.0 1674 1.610
AA9 16.5 1480 20.5 1711 1.610
H4227 18.0 1351 24.0 1736 1.610
300 Truncated Cone
VV N350 9.3 1155 10.0 1233 1.610
2400 13.0 1160 15.9 1365 1.610
AA9 12.0 1111 16.0 1393 1.610
VV N110 17.1 1440 18.0 1506 1.610
444 Marlin
.025
.063
.470 .455
.514 .450 .430
RIFLE LOADING DATA

.200 1.800
2.225
2.570
P opular shooting lore has long held that large caliber, heavy bullets
“buck brush” and stay on course after inadvertent impacts with
cover vegetation better than smaller calibers of higher velocity. In
fact, tests with the .50 BMG cartridge and 750 grain bullets at over
3,000 fps showed that even glancing hits against dowels of 1/8" to
444 MARLIN
1/4" diameter would completely destabilize these huge projectiles,
with full 90° sideways impacts well off point of aim on a target five
yards downrange from such barriers.
The superior terminal effects of large bore rifle bullets are well
known to hunters, but this supposed “buck brush” ability has still
been a principal selling point of cartridges such as 444 Marlin,
despite evidence to the contrary.
444 Marlin can really be thought of as a stretched-out 44 Magnum,

sharing the latter’s bullet diameter and selection options. In perfor-
mance, 444 Marlin with our Laser-Cast 240 semi wad cutter or 300
truncated cone .430" diameter bullets outruns 44 Magnum (rifle) con-
siderably with less pressure. Micro-groove rifles might take some load
development for accuracy.
Lube your cases before sizing. 444 Marlin uses large rifle primers.
These loads require a moderate roll crimp.
Test Gun: Marlin 444 24", WLR
Marlin Rifle Loads

RIFLE LOADING DATA
240 Semi Wad Cutter

Blue Dot 14.7 1260 17.1 1439 2.550
700X 10.0 1250 13.0 1450 2.540
Red Dot 10.5 1265 13.5 1450 2.550
Unique 12.0 1305 15.3 1520 2.550
2400 — DO NOT REDUCE — 22.0 1735 2.550
300 Truncated Cone
700X 10.0 1247 12.0 1366 2.550
Unique 10.0 1178 14.5 1423 2.550
Approach maximum loads with caution.
444 MARLIN
45 Colt Rifle
.060
.480
.512 .454
RIFLE LOADING DATA

.200
1.285
1.600
T he 45 Colt has seen renewed interest for carbine use as the coun-
terpart to Colt revolvers in Cowboy Action competition. 45 Colt
has a deserved reputation for load sensitivity, sharing that trait with
the other large capacity, black powder revolver/carbine cartridges. Its
great seated capacity is best worked with rather than against: 45 Colt
45 COLT RIFLE
is most consistent when loaded with 250 grain, round nose flat point
bullets and moderate charges of bulky propellants such as Unique,
Red Dot, or 700X.
On the other hand, our 200 grain round nose flat point can be made
to shoot reasonably well from Winchester 94s, but such loads are not
likely to print close to point of aim and show consistent velocities
from fixed-sight revolvers. If having one load for both revolvers and
carbine is your goal, try our 250 grain round nose flat point. Loaded
to around 700 fps from your sixguns, this bullet should print close to
sight and also group well from your carbine. Look at our 45 Colt
Cowboy load data and text for more information.
Our .45 caliber round nose flat point bullets both share similar ogive
profiles and will feed correctly through lever actions.
As with other black powder-era cartridges, a solid roll crimp is pre-

ferred.
Caution: do not use these smokeless powder loads in any antique or

black powder firearm! If in doubt, consult a good gunsmith before
you shoot.
Test Gun: Winchester 94AE 16 1/2", WLP
Cowboy Loads
RIFLE LOADING DATA

HP-38 6.2 804 7.2 984 1.575
Clays 4.7 785 5.9 989 1.575
Bullseye 4.9 816 6.2 1058 1.575
231 6.5 911 7.9 1097 1.575
700X 5.8 946 6.8 1125 1.575
Red Dot 6.3 975 7.3 1143 1.575
Unique 6.8 852 7.8 1019 1.575
Unique — — 9.0 1161 1.575
Titegroup 5.5 867 7.5 1163 1.575
XMP-5744 15.2 950 19.0 1198 1.575
45 COLT RIFLE

Clays 5.0 796 5.3 860 1.580
Bullseye 4.7 779 5.4 914 1.580
HP-38 6.3 827 7.0 925 1.580
231 6.3 813 7.2 966 1.580
Solo 1000 5.6 822 6.2 969 1.580
Red Dot 5.2 849 6.0 971 1.580
Unique 7.0 849 8.0 981 1.580
700X 5.0 840 6.0 991 1.580
Titegroup 5.2 842 6.3 1019 1.580
These Cowboy Loads are intended for modern rifles in good condition only!
Test Gun: Winchester 94AE 16 1/2", WLP
Maximum Rifle Loads

RIFLE LOADING DATA

255 Semi Wad H110 19.2 1166 1.595
Cutter AA9 17.5 1186 1.595
296 19.8 1263 1.595
2400 17.5 1266 1.595
HS-7 14.5 1294 1.595
Reduce these charges 5% to start. Reduce H110 by 3%.
Approach these maximum loads with caution. Shoot these only in modern
Winchester M-94 or Marlin 1894 rifles in good condition.
300 Flat Point AA9 15.0 1059 1.570

H110 16.5 1106 1.570
2400 15.2 1128 1.570
45 COLT RIFLE
296 17.0 1134 1.570
HS-7 12.5 1146 1.570
Reduce these charges 5% to start. Reduce H110 by 3%.
Approach these maximum loads with caution. Shoot these only in modern
Winchester M-94 or Marlin 1894 rifles in good condition.
45-70 U.S. Government
.070
.504 .481
.608 .458
RIFLE LOADING DATA
.200 1.800
2.105
2.550
T he 45-70 represented the apex of U.S. military black powder car-

tridge design work undertaken after the Civil War. It was cham-
bered in a series of “trapdoor” Springfield rifles which were them-
selves direct descendants of the last muzzle loading rifled muskets.
The 1873 Springfield-type guns are not particularly strong and 45-70
45-70 GOVERNMENT
cannot be loaded near its potential for them. Some later black-pow-
der era rifles such as Remington’s rolling block and Sharps are little
stronger and also should be used with our “1873 Springfield” data.
Lever actions: More modern actions including the 1895 Marlin, 1886
Winchester, 1895 Winchester (and all other modern single shot or
bolt guns) can use our “1895 Marlin” data safely. If in doubt of your
rifle, consult your gunsmith.
Try-check for proper feeding in your repeating rifle by loading and

marking a few dummy rounds.
As with other lever action rifles, experimentation with various loads

may be required to find out what shoots most accurately from your
gun. Approach maximums with great caution, increasing charges in
2/10th grain increments. Watch for flattened primers and any sign of
incipient head separation. (Refer to Chapter One.) Do not exceed
these maximums for any rifle, nor use “1895 Marlin” data for any
trapdoor-action or Sharps-type rifle.
Use a substantial roll crimp in the forward crimp groove. All loads
require standard large rifle primers.
Test Gun: Marlin 1895 24", WLR
Marlin 1895 Lever Actions

RIFLE LOADING DATA

350 Flat Point
AA 3100 48.0 1124 56.0 1314 2.530
H4198 22.0 1040 30.0 1413 2.530
IMR 4198 22.0 1150 30.0 1483 2.530
H4895 44.0 1489 49.0 1572 2.530
IMR 3031 46.0 1560 48.0 1625 2.530
405 Flat Point
H4895 38.0 1220 40.0 1312 2.530
IMR 3031 34.0 1200 38.5 1375 2.530
H4198 22.0 1018 30.0 1410 2.530
45-70 GOVERNMENT
H 4831 52.0 1303 55.0 1421 2.530
IMR 4198 22.0 1125 31.0 1515 2.530
These loads are safe for Marlin 1895 lever action and other modern rifles.
Do not use in any “trapdoor” 1873 Springfield
Test Gun: Ruger No.3, 21", WLR
Reproduction Springfield 1873 rifles

350 Flat Point

SR 4759 19.0 1045 23.8 1350 2.530
IMR 4198 23.0 1070 31.0 1420 2.530
IMR 3031 29.5 1075 38.0 1420 2.530
405 Flat Point
SR 4759 18.0 950 22.0 1160 2.530
IMR 4198 21.0 950 27.5 1251 2.530
IMR 3031 34.0 1175 37.0 1330 2.530
These loads are safe for reproduction 1873 Springfield rifles and other 45-70s
in good condition.
142
Chapter 4
Loading
for the
Competitor
Previous page:
The first modern 38 Super “Comp gun,” this 1982 “Super Gammon”
was photographed by the author partially completed.
144
LOADING FOR THE COMPETITOR
Photo courtesy of Bar H Productions
Bounty Hunter blasts with his carbine.
So, You Wanna Be a Cowboy
T here is everything good to be said for Plinking, defined as the

sport of non-competitive shooting for fun. You don’t have to con-
front yourself to blast away at milk jugs and soda cans. All that mat-
ters is fun, with each hit a triumph and misses soon forgotten (if
noted at all). Any decent gun with reliable ammunition will scare tin
cans into the air. Plinking is unvarnished, visceral, pure shooting fun
— so naturally we’ve found ways to screw it up: add a timer, objec-
tively scored targets and someone to shoot against and suddenly
even the most arcane aspects of gun, load, eyeglasses, hearing pro-
tection, and rosin take on immense significance. It’s been said we
humans will do things to compete that we’d never consider doing to
save our lives. With all the competitive pressures we put on ourselves
in our quest for excellence and glory perhaps the most important
thing we must do is remember to have fun!
THE LOADING CHALLENGE
Any athletic endeavor compels us to sharpen skills and push against
boundaries, yet the shooting sports demand an extra dimension of

technical and intellectual performance that brings depth to the com-
petitive challenge while steepening the learning curve for new partici-
pants.
Each discipline’s course of fire presents a unique set of ballistic prob-

lems that can be solved by appropriate handloading. This section
should help you to identify your sports’ ammunition requirements
and provide some good, proven loading solutions. Of course you
should also be asking the top shooters in your area for sound advice,
preferably after they’re done shooting for the day. If we’ve lowered
that learning curve a bit and kept you safe, we’ve done our part.
One of the most challenging of all the action shooting sports from a
handloading perspective must be NRA Action Pistol competition.
Loading match ammo for the Bianchi Cup takes on religious signifi-
cance to the top shooters in this game, and their techniques are a
good model for anyone wishing to load the best ammo possible for
their application.
Photo by Yamil Sued
Author shooting the Barricade Event at 1998 Bianchi Cup.
Bianchi Cup, NRA Action Pistol
NRA ACTION PISTOL

History
John Bianchi took his vision of a truly professional pistol tournament
to Ray Chapman, the 1975 World Combat Shooting champion. Ray
designed a 4-stage course of fire which demands skills from PPC, IPSC
and bullseye without unduly favoring or handicapping any one disci-
pline. While the Bianchi Cup course can be fairly criticized as being
dated, static, and boring (IPSC with the fun removed?) it still persists
as the most challenging of the action disciplines. It’s a tough room!
Each of the four classic matches that comprise the 20-year-old

Bianchi Cup NRA Action Pistol championships imposes its own
unique personality and technical demands upon the shooter. Over
the years, this unchanging course has spawned some very specialized
and extreme equipment modifications as top competitors strive to
game out each match’s course requirements and pitfalls. The open
championship is decided on X-count so nothing is left to chance. This
extends to loading procedures and load selection.
Early on, the Bianchi Cup was won by IPSC shooters using 45 Auto
pistols. Mickey Fowler has the distinction of winning with the most
inaccurate pistol: his barrel-ringed 1981 Devel Gammon 45 Auto

wouldn’t hold six inches at 50 yards! Such a poor-grouping gun fired
by mere mortals won’t cut it at the Cup, whether in open or stock
category. You will fire 12 rounds at 50 yards, 12 at 35 and another
48 at 25 yards. In open category, the course can perhaps be cleaned
with a 3 1/2" or 4"-capable pistol, but achieving a winning X-count is
impossible without a sub-2"/50-yard gun.
Which Caliber?
These days, firearm selection is divided between L-frame Smith &
Wesson revolvers and 38 Super Auto pistols. A well-built example of
either type should be capable of consistent 2"/50-yard accuracy.
Revolvers do have the edge in being simpler and generally less
expensive to build up; an action job, perhaps a top-quality barrel and
your choice of a red dot sight and mounts are the minimum require-
ments to be competitive. Barricade wings, finger stops and extended
prone-friendly grips round out your options.
NRA ACTION PISTOL
Load selection for a .38 Special Bianchi gun takes two tracks, depend-
ing on how you approach the all-important moving target event.
Higher bullet velocity on the “mover” never hurts, but light-bullet,
high-velocity loads will be a bit harder to shoot off of the barricades
than tamer stuff. With the development of lead-compensating scopes
and cam-action “mover bases,” the requirement for a 1000 fps mini-
mum velocity to facilitate a leading edge hold at 25 yards has been
negated. The Laser-Cast 148 DBWC driven to about 850 fps remains
a shootable and accurate choice for any shooter opting for a center
hold on the mover. Try HP-38 or Titegroup first.
Still, a number of shooters opt to forgo having to readjust their optic

for each pass and simply hold for a pre-determined lead point at
each distance. The minimum velocity needed for a leading-edge hold
on the 18" wide D-1 target at 25 yards is 1000 fps. There is a noted
tendency for revolver shooters to “stop the gun” at the point of trig-
ger break, more so than for the auto pistol crowd. Thus a little extra
bullet velocity might be worth some trailing Xs. Our 125 grain trun-
Steve Ikeda practicing the
Barricade Event with his S&W
M-586.
cated cone is capable of excellent accuracy throughout the 1000 to

1100 fps range, and such velocities are easily attained. We list loads
for the 125 truncated cone that are safe for use in standard and
small-frame 38 Special revolvers. Velocities over 1050 with our 125
NRA ACTION PISTOL

truncated cone Laser-Cast bullet will approach the “+P” range, which
is no problem for your “L” frame Smith & Wesson 586 or 686.
(Note: Early on, a number of Bianchi competitors used converted “K”

frame PPC guns. These loads tend to erode or even break out the rel-
atively thin forcing cone area of such revolvers after the firing of mul-
tiple thousands of practice rounds. “L” frame Smith & Wesson
revolvers are superior in this regard.)
+P 38 Special Loads for ‘L’ Frame Revolvers Only

Type Grains FPS PF
125 Truncated Titegroup 4.3 1033 128

Cone Red Dot 4.4 1036 128
Universal 5.1 1040 129
Unique 5.9 1046 130
VVN320 4.8 1067 132
Caution: these loads should not be fired in small-frame or very old revolvers.
Refer to our 38 Special section for more load data.
Auto Pistol Loading
On the semi auto side, light bullets are the rule and the 38 Super
Auto (or variant thereof) is the dominant cartridge. Considerable

experimentation with our Laser-Cast 122 grain flat point in .356"
diameter has yielded some very accurate and consistent loads, with
one of the best being 4.3 to 4.5 grains HP-38 seated to 1.2" O.A.L.
This load will consistently produce sub-2", 50 yard groups for 10
shots from the author’s iron-sighted, Bar-Sto barreled stock gun. Each
pistol has its idiosyncrasies and preferences, so plan on doing some
experimenting with your own. Knowing the actual groove diameter
of your barrel will help. Refer to our 38 Super Auto section for load-
ing data and more specific information.
Note: These Laser-Cast loads require much less powder than compa-
rable-velocity jacketed versions. With some tuning, you can achieve
excellent accuracy with much less recoil and wear to your guns.
Bianchi Cup shooters tend towards seemingly unreasonable fanati-

cism in the preparation and loading of their match ammunition. It’s
not hard to see why, when a year’s worth of practice, endless trips to
NRA ACTION PISTOL
the pistolsmith and expense culminate in 192 (hopefully) perfect

shots. Any malfunction or stray shot is an unsurvivable disaster!
Thus, certain precautions and procedures are employed by the top
X–men to insure perfect performance in the tournament.
Most shooters opt to use once-fired brass in their match loads, hold-
ing to the theory that if it worked the first time, it’ll work again.
There’s an element of truth to this as defects like mal-formed rims or
a missing flash hole may not be revealed through visual inspection.
The first firing also expands the case a bit and subsequent firings
may show less velocity variation within a given string. New brass can
also be used but each round must be inspected and gauged for case
length, rim diameter and concentricity of flash hole, rim and extrac-
tor groove. New brass often has sharp, burred case mouths and
starred burrs around the flash hole exit.
One approach to case preparation involves tumbling in walnut hulls
for as long as it takes to remove these burrs; this can take days to

accomplish. Another is to hand-reburr using one of the many tools
available. Though time consuming, a little work with 600 grit abrasive
paper will do an excellent job on rough case mouths. At least one
shooter goes to the trouble of regulating primer pockets and flash
holes with a hand-held pocket reamer in bench-rest fashion. The
author has tested this practice and not found it to be profoundly ben-
eficial to 50-yard pistol accuracy. Then again, it probably can’t hurt.
Thus is the price of peace of mind at the Bianchi Cup.
Loading is done in the traditional manner as outlined in Chapter 1,

with a few minor precautions thrown in. Check your powder measure
for consistency; installing a set screw to lock down the charge bar
insert is a good idea. Recheck charge weights each time you refill the
primer magazine. Start each bullet squarely on the case mouth (after
visually checking the powder charge, of course). Taper crimp only as
much as is needed to prevent bullets from pushing in under feeding
pressure. Use dummies to determine the right amount of crimp. And if
using new brass, size and deprime anyway! A granule of media stuck
NRA ACTION PISTOL

in a flash hole can blow your match. Finally, test hot and cold samples
for both velocity and groups. (The 120 power factor is easily achieved,
but resist the temptation to hedge the line with weenie loads.)
Lead Chart
The moving target event is fired at 10, 15, 20, and 25 yards on an
NRA D-1 traveling at 10 feet per second across 60 feet of exposure.
The D-1 target is 18" wide. Therefore a bullet with an average veloci-
ty of 1000 fps across 25 yards will strike center using a leading-edge
hold. This is of particular importance to Stock Firearm Division com-
petitors who must use metallic sights without lead-compensation
devices. The following chart will provide some guidelines for load
selection.
10 fps Moving Target Lead Chart

Lead in inches at 10 yards 15 yards 20 yards 25
yards
Average 750 4.80 7.20 9.60 12.00

velocity 800 4.50 6.75 9.00 11.25
(fps):
850 4.25 6.40 8.50 10.60
NRA ACTION PISTOL
900 4.00 6.00 8.00 10.00

950 3.80 5.70 7.60 9.50
1000 3.60 5.40 7.20 9.00
1050 3.40 5.15 6.85 8.60
1100 3.25 4.90 6.50 8.20
1150 3.10 4.70 6.25 7.80
1200 3.00 4.50 6.00 7.50
For further information on NRA Action or any other NRA-sponsored

shooting sport, contact:
National Rifle Association of America
Competitions Division
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (800) 627-3888
Steel Challenge

Steel shooting is perhaps the most giggly fun of all the action disci-
plines out there. It’s purely a game of no-limits, no power-factor
super speed hosing. Or, at least that’s what it looks like to the casual
observer. In reality, you can only go as fast as you can hit; the faster
you go the more accurate you must be! Mike Dalton (who with Mike
Fichman invented the Steel Challenge format almost 20 years ago)
once told the author that the “World Speed Shooting Championship”
should really be called the “World Plate-Shooting Championship.”
This type of shooting demands smoothness, precision, and a relaxed
but focused attitude. Steel shooting is fun as hell, but nothing if not
difficult to master.
Because the targets seem big and the shooting fast, many steel shoot-
ers neglect accuracy as an important consideration in their ammo. This
is a mistake. You cannot call your hits at speed unless your gun-load
combination will keep all of your shots at least within half of the 8- or
10-minute area of your red dot at 40 yards. Outer Limits determines
STEEL CHALLENGE
this match, and Outer Limits isn’t won with mindless hosing from an
inaccurate pistol. Those plates shrink when the pressure is on.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Steel shooters have many equipment categories to choose from at
the newly revamped Steel Challenge: Open, USPSA Limited, Revolver
Open, Cowboy Single Action (costumes required) and IDPA categories
are all represented. For any category of gun and holster the same
basic loading imperatives apply: lighter is better but slower is not.
The Steel Challenge course currently uses timing microswitches on
stop plates to register a hit and stop the competitors’ time. Muzzle to
stop plate time adds up and could make a difference in a closely con-
tested race. As well, really low velocity loads will slow you down by
delaying the visual and aural feedback from hits on metal — or miss-
es in the dirt. An optimal velocity for open guns in 38 Super or
9mm Para is around 1050 to 1100 fps with a 115 or 124 grain bullet.
Such loads function reliably in lightened guns, develop enough pres-
sure to work compensators and are not so fast as to mask the sound
of bullet impacts with muzzle blast.
Our 115 grain 9mm round nose bullet, sized to .356", is an ideal steel
bullet for open category guns. Because it’s short and light, a fair
amount of load experimentation may be required to find the most

accurate combination for your particular pistol.
If the 115 round nose doesn’t hang for you, try our 122 flat point; the
extra 7 grains won’t be noticed but the tighter groups will be. Refer
to our 38 Super Auto section for Steel/Action load data.
USPSA Limited and IDPA shooters have a home in Steel shooting, too.
Stock, uncompensated pistols behave and handle radically differently
with reduced loads, so some thought needs to go into load selection
for steel with limited-type guns. With iron sights, you can only shoot
as fast as the sights return from recoil and a stable sight picture is
obtained. The last thing you want is a light load that cycles your over-
sprung slide sluggishly. If you’re very used to the way major loads
recoil from your limited pistol, the least disturbing loading choice for
steel may be to simply substitute a lighter-weight bullet over your nor-
mal charge. This will yield a lighter-recoiling load, but one which
shouldn’t greatly alter timing or require respringing of your pistol.
STEEL CHALLENGE
If, on the other hand, you are intending to dedicate a lot of practice
to stock steel hosing, refer to our steel and action load sections for
the caliber of your choice. Optimal performance with reduced loads
will be enhanced by careful springing to achieve a balance of crisp
action, light recoil and stable sight-picture return.
IDPA stock service shooters will likely be shooting Glock pistols or

perhaps another 9mm service type. Glocks do not take well to
reduced loads or respringing, so look to median loads with heavier
bullets and faster powders to provide softer recoil with good sight
return. For 9mm Glocks, our 135 round nose with 3.7 grains of HP38
feels “clean” and functions reliably. 40 S&W Glocks run well with
either our 155 round nose semi wad cutter and 5.0 grains WST or
perhaps the 170 semi wad cutter and 4.5 grains HP38. (The latter
bullet is particularly accurate in our test guns.)
Revolver open shooters don’t have such functional considerations to

deal with. The author has seen everything that can be fired from a
Smith & Wesson tried on steel, from round balls on up. For compen-
sated space guns, try the 125 truncated cone with a fast- to medium-

rate propellant like Unique or Red Dot. Severely reduced light-bullet
loads in 38 Special (as in all revolver cartridges) show wide velocity
spreads due both to inconsistent powder burn rates at low pressure
and simple aspect variation. Bulkier powders such as 700X, Red Dot,
or perhaps Clays should be used. Hodgdon’s new Titegroup powder
shows promise as well, being formulated specifically to attenuate
aspect variation in big revolver cases.
If you really need to weenie out, try the 9mm Laser-Cast 115 grain
round nose in .356" with 3.5 grains Red Dot. This bullet requires a
modest taper crimp. Our test M-686 grouped this load just well
enough to be promising. Recoil? Forget about it.
I HEAR YER PRETTY FAST, KID

Cowboy Steel shooters are on a whole different trip. The classic Steel
Challenge courses are acknowledged to be much more demanding of
accuracy than stages typically encountered at Cowboy shoots. At the
STEEL CHALLENGE
Steel Challenge, Cowboy single actions may be loaded (carefully!)
with six rounds and a second sixgun may be drawn to finish a string.
We can anticipate that future winners of this event will be the cow-
pokes who made the fewest draws, taking time to hit ‘em all in six
shots or only five. Such a winning strategy will demand a load that is
very accurate and prints exactly to point of aim from both blasters.
Point or index shooting will get your score a pretty tombstone on
Boot Hill; every shot in the match needs to be a sighted one!
Accuracy thus is more important than recoil control per se, and your
usual Cowboy Action load may not be your best bet. Zero and group
your guns at 40 yards and be certain of what they will do!
For more information about the Steel Challenge, contact:

Mike Dalton
c/o The Steel Challenge
6073 Valley Sage Road
Action Valley, CA 93510
(661) 269-2245
IPSC/USPSA
and Other Action Games

A little history
Since its inception in the late 1950s, the sport of “combat shooting”
has grown and developed into a number of independent and varied
disciplines, each with its own rules, viewpoint and organization. The
first to codify rules for the sport was the old Southwest Combat Pistol
League in southern California. When IPSC was formed in the late
1970s its founders adopted SWCPL’s rules and principles almost verba-
tim. After all these years, these principles still guide and inform our
sport — at least in theory! In practice, IPSC has deviated widely from
the model originally envisioned for it. Unforseen advances in competi-
tive equipment (compensated, optically sighted, high capacity pistols
and synthetic speed holsters…) and the popular drive towards high-
round count field courses both served to push aside any pretense of
defensive practicality, reducing IPSC competition to a fun but stylized,
esoteric sport. Cool! Because the natural reaction to that trend has
IPSC/USPSA
been the formation of the International Defensive Pistol Association,

and the 1911 Society — each promoting use of carry-oriented equip-
ment tested in reasonable, scenario-based courses of fire. USPSA has
also responded to the desire of most shooters to be able to compete
with less expensive, more-or-less practical equipment: USPSA Limited
(and IPSC Standard) category largely answers this need and has
become very popular. More new shooters are choosing to compete in
Limited than Open, and Limited shooters dominate many clubs.
Since the early days when the single stack 45 was practically mandat-
ed by the rules, the single most important development to influence
our sport was introduction of 38 Super Auto. Soon after, the sport
branched out in two directions, and our discussion of reloading for
IPSC shooting must look at each branch, Open and Limited, separately.
A then- “state of the art” compensated pistol from the Golden Age
of IPSC dominance by single-stack, iron-sighted 38 Supers, circa
1987.
38 Super takes over

When the author built the first major PF 38 Super Auto “combat com-
petition” pistols in the 1970s, he (very unwittingly) accelerated a trend
IPSC/USPSA
towards smaller caliber, less practical, tournament-gaming equipment
and away from the carry-suitable 45 Autos that then dominated the
discipline. Competing with a 9mm/.38 caliber auto loaded to 160
power factor was considered heretical, even dishonest. Certain clubs
banned us “supermen”; certain shooters ceased speaking to the author,
at least until obtaining a 38 Super “terror weapon” for themselves.
In truth, an uncompensated 38 Super was of little advantage. Sure, it

held three more rounds over the 1911 45 Auto, but recoiled more
sharply. In an era when the match winner was the guy who simply
hit all the targets, shootability was more of an issue than magazine
capacity. (Perhaps that’s still true today.) So, 38 Supers didn’t really
set the IPSC world on fire until we figured out compensators. The
first were little more than barrel-mounted blobs of steel, but we
learned quickly; the smaller caliber, high-pressure .38 Super works a
good compensator far more efficiently than 45 Auto can. The era of
dominance by 38 Super comp guns had arrived. As compensator
designs improved in efficiency, our loads progressed as well.
Mike Briggs
negotiates the tires
at a USPSA match.
In 1978 there existed few commercially available heavy bullets for

9mm/38 Super Auto reloading. We used 158-grain round nose lead,
sized to .356", to give us the mass needed to score major PF on a bal-
IPSC/USPSA
listic pendulum. By the late 80s, the bullet industry had come out with
numerous cast and jacketed designs in the 135 to 150-grain range and
chronographs were adopted to check PF. Safe use of these lighter bul-
lets was facilitated by the appearance of fully-supported, “ramped”
barrels and new, more suitable propellants. As the power factor crept
up to today’s 175, fully-supported chambers became mandatory.
Compensator mechanics
A significant portion of perceived recoil from your 1911 pistol is
caused by the behavior of propellant gas which forms a jet of thrust
upon bullet exit while driving the slide using the chambered case as a
piston. A compensator works by redirecting muzzle blast against sur-
faces to negate the jet thrust effect, slow down the unlocking of bar-
rel from slide and thus reduce residual chamber pressure and slide
velocity. Less slide velocity permits use of a lighter weight recoil
spring which has the desired effect of making the feeding cycle less
abrupt and sight return more predictable to the shooter. Most comps
are also designed to attenuate muzzle flip directly by blowing gas out
the top. However, this only corrects that 20% of net flip generated by
barrel unlocking. Another 5% or so comes when the case hits the
ejector, leaving 75% of muzzle flip associated with energy transmit-

ted through the slide to frame.
Recoil and bullet weight
That explains flip, but what about felt recoil? While a compensator,
correct springing, weight redistribution and thoughtful barrel fitting
can all influence muzzle flip and sight return, the character of per-
ceived recoil impulse is much more a function of the physics of bullet
weight and velocity. In a given gun, heavier bullets will feel “softer”
than lightweight screamers making the same power factor, regardless
of the compensator design used. The best example of this phenome-
non might be found in the heroic 9x25mm Dillon cartridge, essentially
a 10mm Norma necked down to .355" and created specifically to
blast large multi-chambered compensators with as much as 20 grains
of propellant gases. With that much gas volume and a 7-port compen-
sator, you’d expect no flip at all — and indeed some 9x25 pistols
recoil down, accompanied by a mind-shattering report. Yet, the nature
of that recoil impulse is ultraviolent, like holding a steel pipe struck by
a hammer. (Reduced magazine capacity for 9x25s compared to 38
IPSC/USPSA
Super-type pistols probably negates its purported control advantage in
today’s run and gun field courses; 9x25 has seen little popularity.)
Bullet weight and controllability vs. safety
Thus, while light bullets and heavy powder charges develop lots of
pressure to run your comp, such loads are more violent and are
much harder on your equipment. The incidence of broken parts,
failed electronic sights and bore erosion all increase exponentially as
bullet weight is reduced below 150 grains. A well-fitted racegun
should be expected to deliver reliable, accurate performance for a
minimum of 70,000 rounds of 147 grain, lead bullet major loads.
With 147 grain jacketed ammunition, the service life expectancy typi-
cally falls to less than 45,000 due to greater erosion and hammering
from the heavier powder charge required to make major power fac-
tor. Major velocity 125 jacketed bullets will burn out even a tough
Bar-Sto barrel in less than 25,000 rounds, and the author once
observed Aaron Bush “de-rifle” a new barrel with fewer than 500,
115 JHP screamers, losing 85 fps in one practice session!
This says nothing for safety, either. The likelihood of blown or sepa-
rated cases increases in like fashion with decreased bullet weight.
Safe case life for 147 grain cast major loads in 38 Super is no less
than 10 reloadings assuming a correctly chambered and headspaced
barrel, but less than three cycles with a comparable 115 jacketed
load. Control is important, but matches aren’t won with unreliable,
inaccurate pistols, and the open competitor should look for a load
that balances safety, recoil, and muzzle control with enhanced pistol
durability. (If you think you need to shoot 13/100-second splits on
everything to win, think again.) This ideal load should yield a reliable
180 power factor using the heaviest bullet that produces manageable,
predictable muzzle flip and sight return characteristics. Heavily com-
pensated pistols will probably “track” best with 135 grain round
nose; two or three port rigs will still feel crisp with 145 or 147 grain
bullets. Experiment with recoil springs from 11 to 14 pounds. An
overly stiff recoil spring causes the dot to bounce around on return
and can aggravate lateral stringing; you want just enough tension to
reliably strip and feed rounds and return the dot to, or slightly above,
point of aim from full recoil.
IPSC/USPSA
Refer to our 38 Super Auto and 9x23 sections for full loading data
and safety information. Read and understand Chapter One, Loading
Procedures and Safety before proceeding!
When developing a load for your particular racegun, first determine

the required velocity for your bullet weight. Starting from our mini-
mum load, increase powder charges in 2/10th grain increments until
the desired velocity is reached. Watch carefully for signs of excessive
pressure! Our maximum load data for 38 Super and 9x23 is intended
only for fully-supported chambers. Custom pistols will vary widely in
chamber and bore dimensions and fitting profiles — never loan or
exchange your major power factor loads with anyone else’s!
Everything old is new again: IDPA, and new production-gun divi-
sions for USPSA and NRA Action competition have arisen from the
popular revival of orthodox, carry-oriented practical shooting con-
cepts.
LOADING FOR USPSA LIMITED AND OTHER STOCK PISTOLS
IPSC/USPSA
Muzzle flip and recoil mechanics
We’ve seen that the open hosers crave pressure, loading their race-
guns with light bullets and slow-burning powders to work those com-
pensators. Taking this to extremes is counterproductive and potential-
ly dangerous, but even relatively sedate, 147 grain 38 Super major
loads develop enormous volumes of high pressure gas. Fired from a
limited, uncompensated pistol such loads are brutal; unredirected,
that excess gas volume drives slide velocity to wicked speeds. It fol-
lows that if you could make major Pf with the same 147 grain bullet
using a faster powder developing less excess gas volume, your slide
would cycle more slowly and flip less. This is true, however calibers
like 38 Super or 9x23 cannot be loaded to major velocities with fast
pistol/shotgun powders safely (which explains the IPSC/USPSA .40
caliber floor for Limited/major PF).
Heavy bullets
This theory holds for the larger pistol calibers to varying degrees and
many USPSA Limited shooters have adopted heavy bullet, fast pow-
der loads. Extreme examples in .40 S&W using Clays, VV N310 or
Solo 1000 with 200+ grain bullets do feel softly controllable, but
high peak pressures with ultrafast shockwave propogation make such
loads unsafe, even in 1911 type pistols and fully-supported chambers.

(See Chapter One illustration of supported vs. unsupported cham-
bers.) Such loads fired in standard, unsupported chambers will fail
with catastrophic results!
Having said this, an excellent balance can be reached between safe

pressure, recoil impulse, torque, and accuracy. With Laser-Cast
.40/10mm 200 grain flat point for example, the once-popular .40
S&W Major Clays load leads the bore and groups poorly. Similar
results are obtained with VVN310 and Solo 1000 and major loads
with these powders and 200 grain bullets all exceed manufacturers’
recommended maximum charge weights. Not cool and not safe!
Switching from Clays to Universal cuts group sizes by more than half
with little or no increase in perceived recoil or flip, and major loads
with Universal will be well within safe limits. Such loads more than
double useful case life and are far easier on your pistol to boot.
Heavy bullets (i.e., 200 grains in 40 S&W or 10mm Norma and 225
IPSC/USPSA
or above in 45 ACP) do tend to cause more initial muzzle rise from

barrel unlocking, but that’s more than offset by the less violent
cycling afforded by the lighter power charge such bullets require to
make major power factor.
Safety
Our heavy-bullet major loads are intended to be used in properly
made 1911-type pistols using fully supported ramped barrels only.
Approach maximum loads carefully and consult your gunsmith to be
certain your pistol’s chamber fully supports the case wall through the
web. Under no circumstances should you exceed our listed maximum
charges in an attempt to reach the desired velocity and power factor!
If you cannot make major PF reliably with a given maximum load,
switch to a different powder and work up from a reduced load.
Remember, chamber and bore dimensions vary widely, as do the
characteristics of various lots of powder or primers. When making
any change to your major load, reduce your charge and work up
using a chronograph to verify results.
The minimum required:
a box-stock Springfield .45
in a practical carry holster.
Traditional loads for 45 Auto
IPSC/USPSA
In the previous era of the 45 Auto 5-inch gun, 80% of all the shooters
we encountered used the same load: a hardcast 200 grain Hensley &
Gibbs #68 semi wad cutter bullet over 5.7 to 6.0 grains WW231. This
classic combination will often shoot into under 2" at 50 yards, pro-
duces litle leading and is relatively clean. Untold millions of these
were fired by shooters who had no other frame of reference by
which to judge its recoil characteristics.
Modern powders and heavier bullets can yield somewhat more con-
trollable results, but few loads shoot as well as our classic Laser-Cast
200 grain semi wad cutter and WW231 powder. Other powder
options for the 45 ACP and 200 grain semi wad cutter include 700X,
Bullseye, and HP38. 700X in particular always seemed to recoil more
softly than 231, but tends to show greater extreme velocity spreads.
The 230 round nose bullet has always had its devotees. Reliable feed-
ing is its greatest asset. Most pistols will group the 200 semi wad
Bruce Gray shooting the 9-pin event at 1984 Second Chance with
an early compensated 9mm HK P-7.
cutter better and recoil impulse from 230s combines some of the flat
sharpness of 200s with the heavy roll of the 250s.
180 grain semi wad cutters were never popular for 5-inch guns.
IPSC/USPSA
When compensated 45’s appeared, the 180 semi wad cutters

became viable. A lot of these old “first generation raceguns” are left
out there and our 180 semi wad cutter with Unique or Universal is
the right choice.
Reliability
Competition pistols need to work 100%. Central to function is the
care with which your ammunition is reloaded. Be sure to read and
fully understand Chapter 1 before you proceed!
A big aid in the reloading of reliable ammo for semi automatic pistols
is the use of Lee’s factory taper crimp die. These things are great
guarantors of concentricity and sure chambering.
IPSC competitors travel widely. Changes in atmospheric pressure,

humidity and temperature all affect velocity, so do some testing of your
loads under a variety of conditions and record the results for future ref-
erence. Flying 3,000 miles to get “minored” is a total bummer.
Major vs. minor
So, what about minor loads? Minor power factor category is really a

holdover from the 1970s when, for primarily competitive reasons,
the 45 Auto shooters looked for a way to equalize the magazine
capacity advantage of 9mm pistols such as the P-35 or Tommy
Campbell’s famous Smith & Wesson “supergun.” Tommy never
placed out of the top 10 shooting that Smith 9mm at minor — who
knows how many matches he’d have won had he shot a “real” gun.
Such a feat is not reproducible in today’s very competitive match
environment. No 9 or 38 Super Limited gun has enough of a maga-
zine capacity advantage over our hi-cap .40s and .45s. (The author
fired the 1995 Limited Nationals using a 9mm minor pistol and
placed 23rd overall. An identical performance scored at major would
have been good for 6th.)
Sure, minor loads recoil less but that doesn’t usually translate into
markedly reduced split times, faster runs or more ‘A’-Zone hits. Today,
minor category is the chronoman’s purgatory, a place between win-
ning and disqualification for tragic souls who thought 177 power fac-
tor at home was enough. Minor totally sucks; it’s “Dead Man,
IPSC/USPSA
Shooting.”
Alas, in IDPA the 9mm minor squirters have their promised land.
Minor caliber pistols compete only against one another by action type.
Interestingly, this includes all 40 S&W caliber pistols as well. For this
type of competition the same recoil control concepts apply. In 9mm
Para, 135 and 147 grain bullets easily make the minimum 125 power
factor with faster powders like HP38, Unique and Universal. These
loads roll predictably in the hand and permit use of somewhat lighter
recoil spring rates. Still, you may not like the way your pistol feels
with heavy bullets; our standard loads duplicate typical factory ballis-
tics and require no pistol adjustment for optimal function. Standard
weight bullets are also recommended for some load sensitive pistols
and others which cannot safely be re-sprung and/or do not have fully-
supported chambers such as Glocks. Finally, many service-type pistols
have rifling plans which do not stabilize certain bullet weights well.
IDPA is much more accuracy-intensive than IPSC/USPSA competition;
you should place accuracy above recoil control.
Refer to the following power factor chart for a guideline towards load
selection for you particular action sport.
Remember: safety first, last, and always. Read and understand the mate-
rial in this book before proceeding. Hose with caution and have fun!
For more information on USPSA and other Action Shooting sports,

contact:
1911 Society United States Practical Shooting

c/o Heinie Specialty Products Association
301 Oak Street, Suite 3-4 (IPSC/US)
Quincy, IL 62301 P.O. Box 811
Sedro Woolley, WA 98284
IDPA (International (360) 855-2245
Defensive Pistol Association)
2232 CR 719
Berryville, AR 72616
IPSC/USPSA
POWER FACTOR SHEET

Bullet Bianchi Minor Major
Weight PF 120 PF 125 PF 130 PF 175 PF 180 PF 185
95 1263 1316 1368

115 1043 1087 1130
120 1000 1042 1083
125 960 1000 1040 1400 1440 1480
130 923 962 1000 1346 1385 1423
135 889 926 963 1296 1333 1370
145 828 862 897 1207 1241 1276
147 816 850 884 1190 1224 1259
150 800 833 867 1167 1200 1233
155 774 806 839 1129 1161 1194
160 750 781 813 1094 1125 1156
162 741 772 802 1080 1111 1142
165 727 758 788 1061 1091 1121
IPSC/USPSA
170 706 735 765 1029 1059 1088
175 686 714 743 1000 1029 1057
180 667 694 722 972 1000 1028
185 649 676 703 946 973 1000
195 615 641 667 897 923 949
200 600 625 650 875 900 925
205 585 610 634 854 878 902
230 522 543 565 761 783 804
PPC (Police Pistol Combat)
PPC evolved in the era of dominance by the 38 Special revolver in law

enforcement. While new equipment categories have come along, the
basic course remains a stylized, revolver-oriented ballet fired in multi-
ples of six shot strings upon a single target. As happens with all static
courses, very specialized equipment has been developed and shooting
techniques have evolved to the point that perfect scores have decided
winners for many years. Not unlike NRA Action, PPC has become a
game of attrition and success hinges on making no mistakes.
In some regions, the semi auto division matches must be fired with fac-
tory loaded service ammunition. Accurate practice ammo still is a consid-
eration, and we recommend our 122 grain flat point for this application.
Refer to our 9mm Para loading data section. Some experimentation will
be required, no doubt, but HP38 is an excellent powder to start with.
The distinguished match requires use of stock, factory-barreled

revolvers. Best accuracy will often be had using the Laser-Cast 158
POLICE PISTOL COMBAT
round nose or semi wad cutter bullet vs. our 148 DB-WC in Smith &
Wesson M-586/686 wheelguns. Since full wad cutters may be prohib-
ited in distinguished division, this is no real problem. Bullseye,
WW231 and HP38 are all excellent choices here. Use a minimum roll
crimp for best accuracy with 158 grain target loads.
The heavy barreled PPC conversions are designed with full wad cut-
ters in mind. Any gun that won’t place 12 shots into half the width of
the 10 ring at 50 yards isn’t worth keeping. Loading ammunition that
will deliver such accuracy isn’t difficult but there are a few important-
points to note.
Cases should ideally be sorted by brand and condition. With bullets

traveling at the lower threshold of stabilizing velocity an overly
bulged, odd case can cause a slow flyer.
Primer selection is also extremely important. PPC actions are often too
light to afford truly consistent ignition and Remington or Federal small

pistol primers, being a bit thinner, are used to overcome this.
Experimentation with different primers and varied mainspring tension
may reveal a more accurate combination. Primer seating depth is cru-
cial to both accuracy and reliable ignition as well; crush primers in hard!
Some sizing dies are really small in diameter and undersize cases
excessively. Laser-Cast bullets are hard and will generally seat without
distortion even in undersized cases, but it’s best to use a sizer that
brings the cases’ ID to within .002" of bullet diameter. This will
insure more concentric bullet seating and chambering, less bullet
shaving or distortion, and consistent bullet release. All of these fac-
tors contribute to stable velocity spreads and accuracy.
Be certain to hand-start each bullet as concentrically as possible. Too

much or too little case mouth flare can make smooth in-line bullet
seating difficult. Our Laser-Cast 148 DB WC has a small crimp groove
on either end, but treat them as single-ended bullets. Load them
sprue-end up to present the as-cast base to your revolvers’ muzzle

upon exit.
You may find it unnecessary to roll crimp into the groove provided.
Equal or superior accuracy may be obtained by flush-seating and
crimping just enough to straighten out the case mouth flare.
Finally, our 148 DB-WC is cast harder than the others available and
benefits thereby with superior consistency of weight, diameter and
base profile. Being harder, these bullets do not obturate as fully at
very low pressures. Thus, correct sizing of bullets to cylinder and
groove dimaters is crucial to accuracy. Refer to our section on “Bullet
Fit in Revolvers” in Chapter 1.
As well, best groups will be obtained at charge weights above those

listed as starting loads for the 148 DB-WC bullet.
Your department may have some PPC shooters in the ranks; seek out
experienced competitors for advice. If not, a good video can be a
great help in avoiding rookie pitfalls. (John Pride’s instructional tape

on PPC is particularly strong.)
For more information on this sport, contact:

National Rifle Association of America
Competitions Divison
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Handgun Metallic Silhouette

The unlimited categories within International Handgun Metallic
Silhouette Association are dominated by single shot pistols firing
what are essentially bottlenecked rifle cartridges and jacketed bullets.
Instead, our discussion centers on the production, revolver and stand-
ing categories.
The once-dominant 44 Magnum has given ground to high-velocity

.357 variants such as .353 Casull and 357 Maximum, though stan-
dard 357 Magnum and 41 Magnum revolvers will be encountered at
IHMSA matches as well. (Future editions of the Laser-Cast Load
Manual will include loading information for the 357 Maximum and
the Casull cartridges.)
The whole Metallic Silhouette game boils down to these basic com-
petitive imperatives and factors: first, you are only scored on the
“animals” you drop. Therefore, your gun/load combination must be
able to deliver enough momentum to decisively drive rams at 200
HANDGUN METALLIC SILHOUETTE

meters. Lots of loads are powerful enough to drop the rams under
ideal conditions, but what about in a backwind?
Secondly, that powerful load needs to be accurate. How accurate? That

depends somewhat on the size of your wobble zone on the turkey’s
gobble zone. The oddly-proportioned turkey is the hardest to hit, par-
ticularly when standing out in the hot desert breeze. At 150 meters,
you really need sub-4" group capability to hang them on reliably.
Now, about your hold. The challenge isn’t about hitting a chicken at
200 during shootoffs — it’s about hitting anything after being beaten
by 40-plus rounds of Magnum-class nervous system torture in the hot
sun. Recoil sensitivity and noise can’t be ignored as principal factors
influencing your performance. So, perhaps the most powerful cannon
you can hold in your living room isn’t what you really need after all.
Then, we have the interrelated effects of the bullet’s sectional density

on trajectory and wind drift. Metallic Silhouette matches aren’t held
indoors. Doping crosswinds and mirage are part and parcel of the
game. Any supersonic bullet drifts in wind like a parachute, but small-
er calibers hold an advantage when loaded with heavy, long projec-
tiles. This explains part of the continued appeal of the

.357 Maximum round — it’ll drive 180 grain bullets faster than any
.357 Magnum can run a 158 grainer.
Long, heavy bullets also retain proportionately more velocity and

momentum compared to lighter, faster examples. Since our goal is to
deliver maximum momentum at maximum range with adequate
accuracy and shootability, smaller calibers might make sense. (Look
at .41 Magnum in the ballistic comparison chart.)
Trajectory is of course also affected by sectional density, but a high

trajectory in and of itself isn’t a big issue so long as your point of
impact at range is within the adjustment range of your sights.
Examine this chart comparing trajectory and retained energy (at 200
yards) of a number of bullets:
EXTERNAL BALLISTIC COMPARISON CHART
Sights 1.0" above bore, zeroed at 50 Yards:

Muzzle Muzzle Drop Retained Retained
Bullet/Caliber Velocity Energy at 200 Velocity Energy
158 SWC .357 Magnum 1500 780 -31.1 1022 366

180 FP .357 Magnum 1300 675 -37.6 988 390
215 SWC .41 Magnum 1450 1003 -31.2 1046 522
240 SWC .44 Magnum 1450 1120 -32.6 1015 548
300 TC .44 Magnum 1250 1040 -38.5 1000 666
Just from this comparison of our bullets at reasonable maximum
velocities we can see a number of things. The .41 Magnum’s 215

grain semi wad cutter performs proportionately better than the hard-
er-recoiling .44 Magnum with a standard 240 grain bullet. As well,
the .357 Magnum’s 180 flat point retains far more energy at 200
yards than the much faster 158 semi wad cutter. 390 foot-pounds of
energy is adequate to drive rams with high-center hits under most
conditions. Such a load, fired from a long barreled heavy revolver,
might be more competitive (being much less abusive) than a .44 or
.41 loaded to maximum advantage. For a new shooter, starting out
with a .357 Magnum pistol or revolver makes sense, allowing the
devlopment of good hold and trigger tehcnique absent of such pun-
ishing recoil. After all, you can’t drop what you can’t hit!
In general, Laser-Cast bullets will not lead at the velocity you can
attain from your 8 or 10" barreled revolver. See our section on “Bullet
Fit in Revolvers” and refer to the specific section on the caliber of
your choice. For more information on Handgun Metallic Silhouette
competition, contact:

IHMSA NRA
P.O. Box 95690 Competitions Division
South Jordan, UT 84095 11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Cowboy Action Shooting
Even with the development of worthy factory ammunition designed

specifically for today’s Cowboy Action shooter, it is likely that reload-
ing will remain what 75% of those competing in the sport will find
time to do.
Besides the obvious cost effectiveness of reloading, it provides shoot-

ers the opportunity to experiment, tailor and design personally select-
ed loads to fill specific needs.
The importance of safety while engaged in these operations, as well

as good information regarding the kinds of firearms loaded, is essen-
tial. The use of a reliable chronograph and what climatic conditions
will affect a shooter’s firearms, the loads being tested and the
chronograph itself is another area to look to. Understand that the
types of firearms, barrel lengths and the individual conditions and
tolerances of same must be looked to and accounted for, in order to
find the best solution(s).
COWBOY ACTION SHOOTING
I have found that the 200 grain round nose flat point made by the
Oregon Trail Bullet Company (in respective diameters) works
extremely well in both my .45 caliber pistols and my 44-40 lever
guns. The powder charges will range from 4.9 grains to 5.2 for the
pistol loads, and 5.0 to 5.5 grains for the rifle or carbine loads.
Hodgdon’s Clays has worked well enough, although Alliant’s
“American Select” powder may be worth doing some work with as
well. While these loads are “tailored” for my own firearms, they are
designed to meet minimum 650 fps requirements in force at SASS
matches today, and are best suited to the shorter distances found in
most main match Cowboy competitions.
Do not take lightly, nor for granted, the fact that even the best
research and resulting data put forth may well change or differ from
what your own results will be. Be conservative in your own round
Photo courtesy of Bar H Productions
Bounty Hunter takes aim with his Colt 45.
development, have patience, and have fun learning the facts sur-
rounding what many have found an enjoyable and satifsying pastime.

Since much of this manual’s text is oriented towards reloading for
Cowboy Action shooting, reproducing that information here would be
a bit redundant. Please refer to the section pertaining to your caliber
of choice for more approaches to Cowboy reloading and specific
loading data.
— Bounty Hunter, SASS Regulator #1849
For more information about Cowboy Action competition, contact:

Single Action Shooting Society
215 Cowboy Way
Englewood, NM 87015
BLACK POWDER AND PYRODEX® RELOADING
FOR THE COWBOY ACTION SHOOTER
If you are an avid Cowboy Action shooter you have likely become
quite keen on all the period-correct clothing and accoutrements, of
which guns are only a part. For those imbued with the ethos of the
West who are really committed to recreating an authentic frontier
experience, black powder will play a central role.
Sure, black powder rates highest on the pain-in-the-ass scale of shoot-

ing difficulty. (No offense intended to your ass, mule or hinny. -Ed.)
Still, the old timers somehow managed to “tame” the West with it; if
black powder were as much trouble to work with as we now make it
out to be, my Native American wife’s worthy ancestors would have
stuck our teams’ Manifest Destiny where the sun doesn’t shine. The
problems that do present with this oldest of propellants are manage-
able with forethought, good technique and effort.
Straight off, accept the fact that black powder (and its eye squint
equivalent, Pyrodex®) fouling will affect the reliability and potential
longevity of your weapons. Black powder fouling is both chemically
corrosive and hydroscopic, meaning this crud eats rifling and washes
it down with rusty water. Therefore, rigorously adhered-to cleaning
and maintenance rituals must become a part of your act; unfortu-
nately, no shortcuts or tricks can replace honest effort to keep your
guns running in competition or preserve their value. Oil and grease
must not be present in your firearms’ bore or chamber when shoot-
ing black powder (the resulting oily fouling is not water soluble and
therefore much harder to clean), making prompt cleaning necessary
after firing even one shot! So be it; while a number of good black
powder solvents are available commercially, your Buckskinning
cousins use a home brew that is as effective as any:
Black Powder Cleaning Solvent:

One part hydrogen peroxide
One part rubbing alcohol
One part Murphy’s Oil Soap
Label the bottle well! Working rapidly, use this solvent to loosen and
emulsify fouling from stripped parts and bores. When cleaned, pour
boiling water over your parts until very hot, then dry them quickly,
followed by a liberal application of a good preservative oil inside and

out. This doesn’t take as long as it seems. In any event, you are
ready to shoot black powder only when you know to clean for it!
On to the loading
Loading procedures for black powder or Pyrodex® differ from
smokeless techniques. These propellants are to be loaded to 100%
density, and in fact combust most efficiently when somewhat com-
pressed. (Reduced loads are not recommended as air space between
powder and bullet can cause the bullet to behave as a bore obstruc-
tion; poor accuracy, nasty fouling and widely varied velocities are
the most to be expected from low-density black powder loads.) Such
large charge volumes of chunky granules do not meter very well
from standard automatic powder measures. Both black powder and
Pyrodex® loads should be charged from a standard muzzle-loading
type bulk measure anyway, since these propellants are equivalent
by volume, not weight! (Refer to the Chapter One section on prop-
erties of black powder.)
Wads

Ideally, black powder charges should be seated with a wad between
powder and bullet, which protects the base from damage by coarse
granules. The backing from a typical note pad works perfectly; cham-
fer the mouth of an unsized case to an edge and cookie-cut them out
with a plastic hammer. Use a small punch to remove them from the
case periodically.
Choosing the correct charge for your bullet weight

A 100% density, slightly compressed charge is desired for either
black powder or Pyrodex.® To accomplish this it is only necessary to
measure your bullet from base to crimp groove and fill your cases to
within that dimension from the top, taking into account the thickness
of your wad material and the compressibility of the propellant. We
find that 3f black powder burns best when compressed about 1/16"
beyond the level attained by hand-seating the card wad with a dowel.
Pyrodex ‘P’ can benefit from a bit more, say 1/8". In any case, the
“1/8" compressed” rule should be your guide for maximum charge
volumes in black powder-era pistol and carbine cartridges such as
32–20, 38-40, 44-40 and 45 Colt. Let us use a 38-40 RUGER pistol
with a 6.5" barrel as a model:
Ruger Blackhawk 6.5", WLP
®
38-40 Black Powder and Pyrodex Loads

Powder Grains, Volume Card
Type Equivalent Wad Velocity
180 Round Nose Pyrodex® ‘P’ 30 .020" 1045

Flat Point Goex 3f 30 .020" 998
Goex 2f 30 .020" 927
Loading procedure
The extra steps in belling, charging and wad seating render black
powder loading less than suitable for true automation, though it’s not
impossible. We have used a basic loading system for the DILLON
550 B that preserves as much speed as possible:
Set up a toolhead as follows, clockwise:

1. Sizing die
2. Empty measure adjusted to bell only
3. Blank - no die
4. Combo seat and crimp die
The actual procedure is straightforward enough: first, resize and

reprime a case in the usual manner in station one. Bell the case
mouth in the second station. At three, remove the case to a loading
block, where you will drop a charge from your black powder bulk
measure. Then, seat a card wad over the charge using moderate hand
pressure against a dowel of slightly less than bullet diameter. Care
must be exercised not to crush the powder granules or inadvertently
set off a primer. Be careful! Replacing the charged case into station
three, hand start a bullet and index to four to seat/crimp. A solid roll
crimp will be necessary to hold the bullet in place against the com-
pressed charge. Once you are set up and organized, you should have
little trouble producing 150+ rounds per hour.
Which powder?
Pyrodex® holds some advantages over traditional black powder, the

principal one being it can be shipped and stored in the same fashion
as smokeless propellants. Still, it shares black powder’s performance
characteristics and deficits to varying degrees. (If Pyrodex® were
much better, shooting it wouldn’t be nearly as much fun.) Pyrodex®
is perhaps a bit cleaner, though the fouling it does leave behind is
arguably more pernicious and no less destructive to your guns than
the charcoal stuff. It is notoriously ignition sensitive, requiring a “hot”
primer for consistent results. And even more so than black powder,
Pyrodex® just won’t burn worth a hoot in Hades unless compressed.
On the plus side, Pyrodex® delivers excellent ballistic performance

when properly loaded. (Remember, this is still about hitting targets.)
Black powder is somewhat more tolerant of lower-density loads, but
often won’t produce tighter groups. When all’s said, you could not
live on the difference between them, save for an important aesthetic
consideration: black powder wreaths the shooter in billows of luxuri-
ant white smoke, whereas Pyrodex® just might permit both the
shooter and crowd to witness the results of his marksmanship. This

could be an advantage or not, depending on your ego… but that
wonderful sulfurous smoke sure looks great.
This information applies to original black-powder cartridges described

in this manual. Modern smokeless-era rounds like 44 Special,
44 Magnum or .41 Magnum have adequate seated capacity for use
with black powder as well. You may find performance from
38 Special and .357 Magnum less than thrilling. We recommend you
obtain a copy of Hodgdon’s DATA MANUAL 26, which has an excel-
lent chapter covering Pyrodex® reloading for varied applications.
If you have questions or problems,
we are happy to assist you.
Call Technical Support at
800-811-0548.
ULLET
B
O REGON T RAIL
C
O
M PA N
1-800-811-0548
www.laser-cast.com
OREGON TRAIL B ULLET COMPANY
P.O. Box 529 • Baker City, Oregon 97814 • 1-800-811-0548 • www.laser-cast.com

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Reloading Manual

• Unique 7-element alloy

Oregon Trail Bullet Company,

P.O. Box 529 • Baker City, OR 97814-0529

© Copyright Flexible Mining Company, 1998

Chapter 1: Reloading 101

T he creation of the Laser-Cast Reloading Manual proved to be no triv-

Foremost among many, my co-author Gayl Morse; his patient intel-

The loading and range testing of 38 various calibers demanded the

Still, the huge piles of somewhat-organized data sheets, cartridge

Again, many other individuals and companies contributed to this

Bill Anderson Bob Hull

Shoot well, be safe, and have fun.

Bruce Gray, 1998

IT’S ALL ABOUT SHOOTING

When Bruce asked me to write an introduction for the Oregon Trail

Bruce is a true grandmaster shooter who has been involved in the

Today’s firearms industry contributes over $30 billion to our country’s

It is this overwhelming consumer base that Bruce Gray and myself

We must always keep in mind that political correctness changes with

Changes can and do happen. All it takes is a little dynamism among

Everything you always wanted

*but thought you already knew

Given a limited shooting budget, reloading is the only way we can

More than anything else, though, we enjoy reloading. It gives us con-

If we put the same diligence in our selection of firearm, practice drills,

I n presenting this manual, your safety is our paramount concern.

Our objective is to provide the information you need to load excel-

• NEVER load or reload when fatigued, distracted or under

• ELIMINATE potential sources of ignition, such as heaters, ✚

• ALWAYS work in good lighting conditions and visually

• Use your equipment in accordance with the manufacturers

• ALWAYS wash your hands after you handle components

• THINK AHEAD! Plan your operations and anticipate

• Keep powder, primers, and loaded ammunition OUT OF

• DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM LOADS listed in this

• MAINTAIN A PROPER FIRE EXTINGUISHER at the door

• TAKE YOUR TIME, PAY ATTENTION AND WORK CARE-

ASPECT VARIATION: The effect lands in a rifled barrel.

of powder location within the

FULL CHARGE: Ammo loaded to LEADING: The accumulation of

to fire correctly, usually due to: a) NRA Action PF=120.

T here are three basic types of propellants used by sport shooters:

Black powder is the oldest class of propellant available. It is a mixture

Black Powder Granulations

1. Single base - using nitrocellulose.

2. Double base - using nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin.

These basic compounds are moderated by their shape, area, density,

1. Extruded - small cylindrical rods.

2. Flake - thin dots.

3. Spherical - small balls.

In practice, certain propellants are mixtures of two or more shapes

Powder types: 1-extruded; 2-flake; 3-spherical.

Smokeless propellants are designed to burn readily and release large

• NEVER store large quantities of powder together. Instead

• ALWAYS wear eye protection when handling powder or

• AVOID SOURCES OF IGNITION, such as: heat, flames,

• NEVER store powders near solvents, flammables or

• NEVER transfer powders into non-DOT approved or incor-

• NEVER use any powder or other components that are not

✚ • NEVER use powder reclaimed from pulled ammunition or

• To preserve quality and correct identification, ALWAYS

• NEVER discard waste powder in your trash. Destroy old or