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2/7/2015 12:26:23 AM EDT
what is your method for working up a load and fine tuning it?  I know that handgun loads are more simple than rifle, but what advice would you give a relatively new reloader?   Here's my situation.  I've only reloaded .45acp before.  I used 230 gr jacketed bullets with 5.3 grains of Bullseye.  That load worked will for me, so I never had a need to change things up.  Now, I want to reload 9mm.  I've bought some 124gr plated Barry's bullets and I want to use the Bullseye I have on hand.  I've asked before about using Bullseye for 9mm and I got recommendations ranging from 3.7 gr to 4.2 gr.  I don't have  a chrono, so I'm somewhat limited in my ability to gauge performance.  What things should I look for as I start increasing the amount of powder?  In other words, how do you know when you hit that sweet spot?

Thanks...
2/7/2015 12:46:16 AM EDT
[#1]
First get your data from published sources. Reloading manual or powder sites, in your case Alliant. http://www.alliantpowder.com/



Begin loading at the start load. (lowest charge listed)



Work up watching for pressure signs. (read a reloading manual for more)



As long a load functions pistol, shoot groups as you work up.



For me best group near max load wins.
2/7/2015 10:12:06 AM EDT
[#2]
Start at published minimum load.

After dry function test to make sure rounds feed, I make 20 rounds per load.

I usually go .2gr steps to max published load depending on the minimum/maximum published spreed.

I shoot groups of five rounds from each 20 round ladder through a Chrony but not neccesary if you do not have a chrony.

I'm looking for tightest groups that shoot the softest and function 100%.
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