below minimum loads with Longshot

[saskgunowner101]

I have a question for the pros, or anyone who knows more than me. I'm reloading for the .40 S & W, using Longshot powder, and 135 grain jhp Noslers.

The starting load is 10.5, and the max load is 12 (although it might be revised to 11.5 on the website now). I'm using a Lee turret press with auto disc to throw powder.

I tried the adjustable charge bar, but it seemed to throw inconsistent charges.

Using the .82 disc, it is supposed to throw 9.9, but its more like 9.6 grains.
Using the .88 disc, it says it will throw 10.7 grains.

If I were to load a few up with 9.6, would I be tempting fate?? I usually scale throw with Longshot, but want to speed it up. Thanks in advance.

 

[Ganderite]

How much does the .88 disc throw?

 

[Andy]

The reason for Maximum loads is something that's not difficult to understand, but not so for Minimum loads. There are several factors that come into play, mainly:

- you don't want the potential for a bullet to get lodged in the bore;
- you want the powder to be working within its effective pressure range so that velocities are consistent; and
- you want complete powder burns.

This is moot in this case though, as the Hodgdon site says the operating range for Longshot is 8.5 gr to 11.5 gr with the 135gr NOS JHP.

 

[saskgunowner101]

GANDERITE- The .88 disc throws between 10.4-10.6 grains, depending on its mood. I know I could just run with this disc with no problems, but I noticed with Titegroup a few good groups below the minimum charge.

Andy- Thanks for pointing the revised minimum out. After checking the Hodgdon site again, I noticed this. I have a print out from Feb. 2008, and it has 10.5-12 grains listed.

I guess I have a little more room to play. I was just concerned that I might run into problems from too little powder ( I think H-110 was one mentioned somewhere).

Better safe than sorry, right. Thanks.

 

[Andy]

Yes, H-110 (and its twin - W296) are slow pistol powders and don't play nice when their operating pressures drop below a certain level.

 

[Janeau]

Do not worry about the minimum. Use your .88 disc - 10.7 grains of Longshot.
If I was you, I would make weighted load of 10.7 - 11gr. up to max and try it for accuracy and function. When you have an accurate load - whatever it is - modify - drill your disk to give you the charge you need based on the chosen powder charge. You will be surprised how much .2 grain can make a difference in group size. Develop your load first - then load a lot of it. Do not make the mistake to load a lot of untested ammo