changing bullets

[RoscoeT]

So, I know that we are always told not to substitute components when reloading. But...

Suppose you have loading data from Hornady for the powder you have, and calls for a 100gr hornady BTSP.

But you don't have a Hornady bullet.

You have a different brand 100gr SP but no loading data from the mfg of the bullet for that powder.

I assume, but want to ask to be sure, that you're ok using the Hornady powder and load info as long as the bullet weight is the same and you work up like normal.

Am I correct?

 

[Gatehouse]

Just work up like normal....All data is just a guideline, even if you are using the listed bullet, as every rifle is different.

 

[RoscoeT]

Just work up like normal....All data is just a guideline, even if you are using the listed bullet, as every rifle is different.

That's what I figured. But when you read the line "do not substitute any components" about a million times you start to wonder... should I ask before I do this.

Thanks for the reply.

 

[Silverado]

Gatehouse basically nailed it. The situations where the baseline data will likely be good are where the 2 bullets are of the same weight and same construction, such as a Hornady Interlock, and Remington CoreLokt.

Where you want to be extra careful in substituting bullets is where one bullet has a drastic difference in construction from another, such as a Hornady vs. a Barnes X.

 

[Pathfinder]

Ive worked up loads with one bullet and then tried another bullet of the same weight to see if one grouped better. Ive done this for 3 different guns / and different chamberings and the only thing I noticed were that the groups were comparable.