I have several reloading manuals from a span of from 1950 to current issues. I like the older manuals with realistic loads that have not been lawyerfied on the altar of too much caution. Now I am not a hot-rodder but I like realistic data that allow me to get top performance from my not so common loads.
For example, I have a 7x57 load with 120 grains bullets that exceed 25-06 MAX LOADS by about 200 fps. It shoots like a lazer out to 500 yards. I ONLY SHOOT THIS LOAD in a modern 1985 vintage Winchester Model 70 Featherweight. This ammo is totally safe in the gun I use it in. It has been extensively chronographed. It will never be shot in any other rifle. PERIOD. I load it in Nickel plated cases so there will never be any confusion.
This load/rifle combo has been used on 5 pronghorns from South Dakota and New Mexico, at ranges from 250 to a longest, best shot at just under 400 yards. In all cases, drt, one shot.
I really think any serious reloader should have a few of the older manuals to use as one end of the loading spectrum and blend those loads with newer manuals. Responsible load development spans a spectrum from a variety of sources, and prudent ladder approaches across a range of known safe load levels.
Always check and double check your data, and burn as much powder as you can.