Safe loading for the new guy

[Silverado]

Please tell me if these are correct:

You may substitute the same charge of a slower powder, all else being equal, and not increase pressure.

You may use a lighter bullet with a given charge, and not increase pressure.


Am I out to lunch here?

Please don't let me blow up!

 

[Levi Garrett]

Your not in danger with the second part, but why would you do that, follow the manual, at starting loads, work up from there.
With the slow powder, it depends on the initial load, how much slower the powder, and I would again go with the load data, start at the lowest range then work up. Look online, or ask on here with given components, you may even get a pet load
Frank

 

[Silverado]

Thanks Levi,

I hear you on using the load data. This was more just an excersize in wheather I understand some of the factors that influence pressure.

 

[oldbadger]

The best way to check yourself out on all of this stuff is to get hold of any decent loading manual and read the first half. Most people are eager to get at it and skip straight to the recipe section. Think of your reloading manual as a cook book for beginners; you don't want to try a souffle when you aren't sure how to separate eggs!

I will be happy to lend you any of the really good manuals in the Badger stash!
You should, though buy at least one of your own when the opportunity permits.

OB

 

[agilent_one]

Also, borrow/buy a chrony. Along with a "good" loading manual a chrony is invaluable for pressure indications & knowing where to stop.

 

[thecollector]

You may use a lighter bullet with a given charge, and not increase pressure.

Generally correct.

You may substitute the same charge of a slower powder, all else being equal, and not increase pressure.

NO! Not always the case; in addition to relative burn rate, the other factor not considered here is specific energy content (ie. energy content per unit powder weight) which will be heavily dependent on nitroglycerin content for double base powders.

 

[Silverado]

I tried to post a reply again last nite, but no go???

Anyway, I have both the Lee and Speer manuals, as well as the Hodgdon one online. I plan to pick up the Sierra, Barnes and Nosler manuals next time I'm in the city.

What I was getting at with the slower powder was subbing say H4350 in place of IMR 4350. Very close, but one being just a little slower (or so the rate charts say.)

A chrony is on my wish list, if only I could stop buying guns LOL

Thanks for the responses fellas.

 

[303carbine]

reloading

Before I reloaded my first cartridge I read every loading manual I could get my hands on. I read for about 2 years before I ever bought a set of dies and a press. NEVER substitute one powder for another even if they have the same numbers but a different letter in front. Never start with the maximum charge listed as it may be too much for your gun and damage to you or your rifle and others around you could result.