Pet Load for .380

RNG · October 14, 2007, 09:03 AM

I'm looking for load data for Rainer plated 95gr RN. I realize your supposed to use the load data for cast of the same weight but my Lymans 48th edition manual doesn't list a a 95gr RN cast bullet.

Currently loading;
Rainer plated 95gr
Winchester 231
Winchester Primers
Mixed brass
2.9gr

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks,
Richard

45Marlin carbine · October 14, 2007, 10:10 AM

I use Bullseye w/good results. also Remington JHP's shoot great and aren't that much more than the plated pills.

JohnLizCas · October 15, 2007, 06:37 AM

Own a Bersa T380 and reload 95 gr Ranier bullets on top of 2.8 gr of 700X. Works like a charm. John

Sigma 40 Blaster · October 15, 2007, 07:36 AM

I use 95 gr. lead bullets and 3.5 grains of Unique in my Bersa Thunder if I remember correctly 3.8 is the max load.

I don't remember where I found that load data, I believe from a Lyman reloading book/magazine a buddy of mine let me borrow.

gb_in_ga · October 15, 2007, 10:09 AM

I've found that the following works well in my Bersa Thunder .380. Good Range Fodder:

Mixed brass
95 gr Rainer Plated LRN
Remington or Winchester small pistol primer
3.2 gr HP-38
.970 OAL

Notes: According to Hodgdon, HP-38 and W231 are one and the same powder. Apparently my gun is sensitive to ammo sizing, I find that the use of Lee's factory crimp die really helps -- there's never an issue when I use it.

And, of course -- Caveat Emptor. Just because it works fine in my gun doesn't mean that it will work that way in yours...

RNG · October 15, 2007, 04:04 PM

Thanks to everyone for the replies. Only problem I've been having with the Rainer 95gr RN with the .380 is I'm having to put a pretty tight taper crimp on them to keep them from easily setting back into the case when I push on the bullet. Anyone else having this same issue? I've already loaded a box of 50 at 3.1gr W231 and they shot great out of my wife's Bersa T380 with no pressure signs. Just needed a sanity check with the load data.

Much appreciated.

Kindest Regards,
Richard

gb_in_ga · October 15, 2007, 04:14 PM

Bullet setback? I haven't had issues along those lines, but I've found that the OAL I use along with the Lee FCD's taper crimp (and I do have to crimp it pretty tightly) are what it takes in order to get reliable feeding in my gun.

About your 3.1 gr load of W231 -- that's only .1 gr away from the 3.2 load of HP-38 that I use in my T380, keeping in mind that those 2 are actually one and the same powder. And I'm not showing any signs of over-pressure, either.

RNG · October 15, 2007, 04:34 PM

gb_in_ga,
I haven't picked up the Lee FCD yet. Still seating and crimping in the same step (Lee Pro 1000). I'm seating to the same OAL as you (.970) with a diameter of .370. While working up the load I started at 2.3gr, to 2.6gr, to 2.9gr, and finally 3.1gr. All cycled the Bersa just fine with no FTF's, FTE's, or stove pipes. 2.9gr was pretty accurate with 3.1gr being more so and still no pressure signs. I settled in with the 2.9gr, happy with the accuracy (at the time) and wasn't beating up the Bersa. Had it at the range Saturday and wasn't pleased with the accuracy. Seems something may have changed. Getting ready to go back through all of my data, including double checking the dimensions of my previously loaded cartridges, to make sure nothing changed. I know the powder charge is spot on as I'm very careful to check the case prior to bullet placement/seating. Thanks again for the info. I'll load up some 3.1gr's and a few at 3.2gr's and check for pressure to be sure.

Richard

Kosh75287 · October 15, 2007, 10:56 PM

RNG,

Admittedly, the .380 is a small capacity case, but don't hesitate to experiment with slower burning powders than WW231. Alliant Unique works well in almost all pistol cartridges, and Herco is only slightly less versatile.
Alliant's website lists 4.2/Unique/95FMJ and 4.4/Herco/95FMJ as max loads, but I'll bet you'll get reliable functioning and decent accuracy with starting loads (10% off of max). You may find that you get lots of muzzle flash with these two powders, so don't let it surprise you. A heavier-than-usual crimp might help this, if it's troublesome.
Since these powders are a little more bulky than the faster-burning ones, you might find that the magical-mystical "loading density" factor (the powder charge more completely fills the case) may enhance your accuracy somewhat. I'm still trying to figure out HOW it does that, but I've seen it too many times to "poo-poo" the notion.
You might also try IMR PB as another powder. I've yet to find any smaller capacity pistol cartridges that didn't work pretty well with it. Since Hodgdon now owns IMR and Winchester (though, apparently, NONE of them manufactures powder anymore), I fully expect PB to be discontinued when I least suspect it. I try to buy all I can get.

FM12 · October 15, 2007, 11:03 PM

I use Bullseye, starting at 2.5 grains and up, depending on the bullet weight.

windh1 · June 13, 2012, 06:30 PM

can someone fill me in on the normal expectations of accuracy for the 380? I just got a high point 380 never had a 380 before. I usually shoot rifles and am used to the accuracy of a rifle. what can be expected from my new 380?

Marco Califo · June 13, 2012, 11:09 PM

I guess it depends on the pet.

Unique 4.6 gr

http://www.alliantpowder.com

ScottRiqui · June 13, 2012, 11:13 PM

3.1 gr of W-231 works well for me, too.

zxcvbob · June 13, 2012, 11:23 PM

I use 4.2 grains of Unique with 95 grain cast bullets for my hot loads, and 3.0 grains of International for something a little more pleasant to shoot. When I run out of International I'll substitute the same amount of Green Dot or Titegroup.

warningshot · June 14, 2012, 02:33 AM

1) You aint ever never never ever ever never get 'a uniform crimp or consistant AOL' using such a small plated bullet, as compared to using a cast or a typical copper jacketed bullet. Nope. Aint happening.

2) Using W231 or Bullseye, try some jacketed 115s or 124s....takes the bite out of the .380 punie round.

Clark · June 14, 2012, 04:21 AM

I find there are different classes of 380s, depending on slide mass, case support, chamber wall thickness, and recoil spring force x distance.
Blow back vs locked breech is not associated with any improvement.

1) Low class:
a) I have worked up Power Pistol 90 gr Gold Dot so there is no margin before bulge starts in my Kel-Tec P3AT barrel with case support provided with .290".
It will do 1100 fps from the 2.7" barrel.
That is the same as Buffalobore Ammunition +P 380 90 gr with a 2.7" barrel.

b) The Ruger LCP is in the same class with support at .270" and 2.75" barrel.

2) Middle class
The Bryco can produce much more power with the case support at .230".

3) High Class
a) The Beretta 1934
b) and Browning 1903 give support to virtually the case web and can make much more power than the Bryco.

October 14, 2007, 09:03 AM	#1
RNG Senior Member Join Date: August 6, 2007 Location: South Carolina Posts: 120	Pet Load for .380 I'm looking for load data for Rainer plated 95gr RN. I realize your supposed to use the load data for cast of the same weight but my Lymans 48th edition manual doesn't list a a 95gr RN cast bullet. Currently loading; Rainer plated 95gr Winchester 231 Winchester Primers Mixed brass 2.9gr Any input would be greatly appreciated. Many Thanks, Richard

October 15, 2007, 06:37 AM	#3
JohnLizCas Senior Member Join Date: November 21, 2004 Location: NJ Posts: 162	380 reloads Own a Bersa T380 and reload 95 gr Ranier bullets on top of 2.8 gr of 700X. Works like a charm. John

October 15, 2007, 10:09 AM	#5
gb_in_ga Senior Member Join Date: February 15, 2005 Location: Pensacola, Fl Posts: 3,093	I've found that the following works well in my Bersa Thunder .380. Good Range Fodder: Mixed brass 95 gr Rainer Plated LRN Remington or Winchester small pistol primer 3.2 gr HP-38 .970 OAL Notes: According to Hodgdon, HP-38 and W231 are one and the same powder. Apparently my gun is sensitive to ammo sizing, I find that the use of Lee's factory crimp die really helps -- there's never an issue when I use it. And, of course -- Caveat Emptor. Just because it works fine in my gun doesn't mean that it will work that way in yours... __________________ COME AND TAKE IT http://www.tamu.edu/ccbn/dewitt/batgon.htm Formerly lived in Ga, but now I'm back in Tx! Aaaand, now I'm off to Fla...

October 15, 2007, 04:14 PM	#7
gb_in_ga Senior Member Join Date: February 15, 2005 Location: Pensacola, Fl Posts: 3,093	Bullet setback? I haven't had issues along those lines, but I've found that the OAL I use along with the Lee FCD's taper crimp (and I do have to crimp it pretty tightly) are what it takes in order to get reliable feeding in my gun. About your 3.1 gr load of W231 -- that's only .1 gr away from the 3.2 load of HP-38 that I use in my T380, keeping in mind that those 2 are actually one and the same powder. And I'm not showing any signs of over-pressure, either. __________________ COME AND TAKE IT http://www.tamu.edu/ccbn/dewitt/batgon.htm Formerly lived in Ga, but now I'm back in Tx! Aaaand, now I'm off to Fla...

June 13, 2012, 06:30 PM	#11
windh1 Junior Member Join Date: June 13, 2012 Location: where I am told to live Posts: 1	accuracy can someone fill me in on the normal expectations of accuracy for the 380? I just got a high point 380 never had a 380 before. I usually shoot rifles and am used to the accuracy of a rifle. what can be expected from my new 380?

October 14, 2007, 10:10 AM	#2
45Marlin carbine Junior member Join Date: January 26, 2007 Location: South-Western North Carolina Posts: 1,124	I use Bullseye w/good results. also Remington JHP's shoot great and aren't that much more than the plated pills.

October 15, 2007, 07:36 AM	#4
Sigma 40 Blaster Senior Member Join Date: July 2, 2007 Location: East Texas Posts: 997	I use 95 gr. lead bullets and 3.5 grains of Unique in my Bersa Thunder if I remember correctly 3.8 is the max load. I don't remember where I found that load data, I believe from a Lyman reloading book/magazine a buddy of mine let me borrow.

October 15, 2007, 04:04 PM	#6
RNG Senior Member Join Date: August 6, 2007 Location: South Carolina Posts: 120	Thanks to everyone for the replies. Only problem I've been having with the Rainer 95gr RN with the .380 is I'm having to put a pretty tight taper crimp on them to keep them from easily setting back into the case when I push on the bullet. Anyone else having this same issue? I've already loaded a box of 50 at 3.1gr W231 and they shot great out of my wife's Bersa T380 with no pressure signs. Just needed a sanity check with the load data. Much appreciated. Kindest Regards, Richard

October 15, 2007, 04:34 PM	#8
RNG Senior Member Join Date: August 6, 2007 Location: South Carolina Posts: 120	gb_in_ga, I haven't picked up the Lee FCD yet. Still seating and crimping in the same step (Lee Pro 1000). I'm seating to the same OAL as you (.970) with a diameter of .370. While working up the load I started at 2.3gr, to 2.6gr, to 2.9gr, and finally 3.1gr. All cycled the Bersa just fine with no FTF's, FTE's, or stove pipes. 2.9gr was pretty accurate with 3.1gr being more so and still no pressure signs. I settled in with the 2.9gr, happy with the accuracy (at the time) and wasn't beating up the Bersa. Had it at the range Saturday and wasn't pleased with the accuracy. Seems something may have changed. Getting ready to go back through all of my data, including double checking the dimensions of my previously loaded cartridges, to make sure nothing changed. I know the powder charge is spot on as I'm very careful to check the case prior to bullet placement/seating. Thanks again for the info. I'll load up some 3.1gr's and a few at 3.2gr's and check for pressure to be sure. Richard

October 15, 2007, 10:56 PM	#9
Kosh75287 Senior Member Join Date: October 15, 2007 Posts: 820	RNG, Admittedly, the .380 is a small capacity case, but don't hesitate to experiment with slower burning powders than WW231. Alliant Unique works well in almost all pistol cartridges, and Herco is only slightly less versatile. Alliant's website lists 4.2/Unique/95FMJ and 4.4/Herco/95FMJ as max loads, but I'll bet you'll get reliable functioning and decent accuracy with starting loads (10% off of max). You may find that you get lots of muzzle flash with these two powders, so don't let it surprise you. A heavier-than-usual crimp might help this, if it's troublesome. Since these powders are a little more bulky than the faster-burning ones, you might find that the magical-mystical "loading density" factor (the powder charge more completely fills the case) may enhance your accuracy somewhat. I'm still trying to figure out HOW it does that, but I've seen it too many times to "poo-poo" the notion. You might also try IMR PB as another powder. I've yet to find any smaller capacity pistol cartridges that didn't work pretty well with it. Since Hodgdon now owns IMR and Winchester (though, apparently, NONE of them manufactures powder anymore), I fully expect PB to be discontinued when I least suspect it. I try to buy all I can get.

October 15, 2007, 11:03 PM	#10
FM12 Senior Member Join Date: February 5, 2007 Location: Monroeville, Alabama Posts: 1,683	I use Bullseye, starting at 2.5 grains and up, depending on the bullet weight.

June 13, 2012, 11:09 PM	#12
Marco Califo Senior Member Join Date: April 4, 2011 Location: LA (Greater Los Angeles Area) Posts: 2,722	Pet Load? I guess it depends on the pet. Unique 4.6 gr http://www.alliantpowder.com __________________ ............

June 13, 2012, 11:13 PM	#13
ScottRiqui Senior Member Join Date: January 27, 2010 Location: Norfolk, VA Posts: 2,905	3.1 gr of W-231 works well for me, too.

June 13, 2012, 11:23 PM	#14
zxcvbob Senior Member Join Date: December 20, 2007 Location: S.E. Minnesota Posts: 4,720	I use 4.2 grains of Unique with 95 grain cast bullets for my hot loads, and 3.0 grains of International for something a little more pleasant to shoot. When I run out of International I'll substitute the same amount of Green Dot or Titegroup. __________________ "Everything they do is so dramatic and flamboyant. It just makes me want to set myself on fire!" —Lucille Bluth

June 14, 2012, 02:33 AM	#15
warningshot Senior Member Join Date: October 8, 2009 Posts: 995	1) You aint ever never never ever ever never get 'a uniform crimp or consistant AOL' using such a small plated bullet, as compared to using a cast or a typical copper jacketed bullet. Nope. Aint happening. 2) Using W231 or Bullseye, try some jacketed 115s or 124s....takes the bite out of the .380 punie round.