I have noticed in comparing load data from various editions of Hornady that the loads for come calibers have been cut down. Some explain this as being related to testing technology, ie strain gages.
I seldom load to max, other than during load development. But having said that, it is interesting that some calibers are now less effective than they were years ago. The 270 Winchester is an example. In the oldest Hornady manuel I have they had several powder loads that would send the 130 gr. spire point out at 3200 fps. And there were a couple of powders that mailed the 150 gr. spire point over 3000 fps. Today, they have just a few powders that exceed 3000 fps for the 130 gr., and nothing over 3100 fps. and not a single load that is close to 3000 fps for the 150 gr. Also, 130 gr.factory ammo was sold at 3140 fps for many years, but now, excepting high performance ammo 3060 fps is the standard. So was this change of data based on documented failures?
Being an old cynic, I think not.
