variation in load data

[UltimaSE]

I just realized this in all the manuals they list specific combinations of rounds that they reloaded. Are we just supposed to get as close as we can to them? I would think there would be a somewhat small difference between loading a 200 grain jhp or a 200 grain fmj but I want to make sure. One of the manuals I have lists a load with blue dot but then it specifically lists a jhp bullet instead of a fmj bullet that I purchased.

Thanks in advance,
UltimaSE

[shooter22]

There are times when the grain amount will be different for lets say a fmj round nose and a Gold dot of the same weight.(in the speer book) I was wondering about this just this evening. I have never loaded anything except gold dots. Just since my purchase of my Springfield have I thought of loading FMJ Round nose. It does not give a reason, but I know that thereis a difference at times. I too would like an explaination.

shooter22

[Archie]

It is complicated. The simplist answer is that all bullets are internally different (duh!) and therefore have differing resistance to entering the rifling.

Contrary to popular or intuitive thought, lead bullets run higher pressures than jacketed. Either because they seal off the bore better, or they drag on the bore more, being softer. Maybe both.

A hollow point might "give" a little more than a FMJ. Or it might have a "harder" alloy.

Bottom line. Start low and work up. If recoil gets more than what you think it ought to be (compare to factory), or noise levels are harsher, you might back off just a might. Certainly for general practise, plinking or target work a "max load" is unneeded.

Defense loads shouldn't be maximal for that matter. You want control and reliability. Having your pistol come undone in the face of the unholy is not a desired result. To some extent, hunting loads have to be reliable and function under all climates.

End of sermon.