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Yes, pistol cartridges and especially smaller ones such as 9mm can be very sensitive to OAL changes. Almost all published data includes the OAL used for the given loads and pressures. Follow the published data and you are good to go, starting at the start loads or 10% below max.
I have been reloading for 25 yrs and never load to the max published level. I usually end up about midway between min and max listed loads, or closer to the minimum/start load. The main thing I look for is reliable operation of the recoiling slide and feeding of next cartridge. Then I want the point of impact to be close to the point of aim height wise. I see no reason to try for maximum velocity and beat up my pistols.
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