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Posted: 8/28/2026 3:10:33 PM EDT
[Last Edit: compuvette][Edited]
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Last year I did some “dirt squirrel” 45acp and 44 Special loading runs using cheaply sourced components. This time is a little different. I refined my coated DEWC/Titegroup 38 Special load and whipped up some cheap 9mm target fodder. The 38 Special was loaded with all the wadcutter brass I had on had (about 100 pieces) and another 250 or so generic brass. Acme 148 grain coated DEWCs were used with Fiocchi primers and Titegroup. Originally I’d loaded 3.1 grains for about 150 rounds last year. Shot those up and I wanted to slow them down a little. I settled on 2.9 grains and am happy with the results: 148gr Acme DEWC 2.9gr Titegroup, 1.16” COAL, Fiocchi SPP 4” 67: 776fps (3.1) 4” 67: 697fps (2.9) 4” Trooper MkIII: 775fps (3.1) 4” Diamondback: 755fps (3.1) 2” 10-9: 700fps (3.1) 2” 64-2: 662fps (2.9) 1-7/8” 60-7: 657fps (2.9) I seated the bullets to the crimp grove so there’s just a bit sticking out. I used a mix of dies on a Dillon 550. Separate seating and crimping. Accuracy with the 2.9 grain load out of the 67 and 64 is exceptional. Those short barrel K frames don’t realize they have a short tube. I’ve got a 2 inch model 15 that just amazes me.  On to 9mm. I bought a 500 pack of Acme 145 grain coated LRNs with no lube groove during Covid. Hadn’t touched them yet and figured I’d load up a quasi “jello shot” round. Settled on 3 grains of Titegroup after perusing Hogdon’s site. I used mixed range brass (I’ve got a BUNCH) and the previously mentioned Fiocchi primers. 145gr LRN Acme 3gr Titegroup, 1.15” COAL, SPP 5” M9A1: 847fps 3.75” P-01: 822fps Tested them out of a Beretta M9A1 and a CZ75 P-01. I chamber checked them in both pistols first as I know CZ’s can be tight. I was concerned that I’d have functioning problems at this low charge, but both pistols chugged right through and locked the slide back. I am running lower powered hammer springs in both, so bare that in mind. Recoil was mild, as expected. I didn’t shoot many and the furthest was 7 yards with this ammo as there was a thunderstorm rolling in.  I’m happy with both and should have the 9mm batch done this weekend. Then I gotta figure out what’s next…… |
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