first reloads

small gamer

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SW Ontario
Hi. I just tried my first reloaded cartridges out. They were 125g JHPs in front of 5.2g of Power Pistol out of my M&P Pro. Thirty rounds, no failure to load, failure to fire, or failure to eject. I am pleased. My question is this: I have read that Power Pistol creates a real flame from the muzzle, and that definetly is the case. Why is it that certain powders create more muzzle flash than others? Is it a particular ingredient?
 
Muzzle flash is primarily due to unburned propellant (there are other causes, but that's among the most significant). Some loads are prone to it, especially those with slower-burning propellant. Short barrels tend to exacerbate the problem, too. If it bothers you, tame the load a bit or change powders.
 
Thanks ATOM. Nope, it doesn't bother me. I was just curious. As time goes on, I expect to try different powders for experimentation's sake. I also plan to try tamer loads so it is more comfortable/quieter for the wife & daughter to shoot. The 5.2 gr. choice is because it's middle of the road re: Alliant's recommendation for 125 gr. jacketed rounds.
 
One suggestion, if I might. JHPs and FMJs are fun, but they're a lot more expensive than simple cast lead bullets. Especially if you're loading tamer loads for your ladies, there's no reason not to use the high-price stuff. I have as much fun shooting 148 grain lead wadcutters over Red Dot from my .357 as I do from the high-test loads.

Anyway, welcome the fold. Lots of good advice here - and not always mine.
 
I'll have to remember this load...I've been interested in having a "flashy" pistol load just for sh!ts and giggles for a little while now...Bullseye, Unique, Red Dot and VVn340 are great to shoot with, but none produce any discernable flash (noticeable smoke with Unique, but that's about it) in either of my 9s.
 
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