faim1123

Thanks to all for your answers. Most helpful.

I've just begun reloading for the 357 Sig and would appreciate some insight into powder charges. I'm using AA #9 powder and 125 gr, .355 dia Zero FMJs with Win SP primers. The load data indicates that the minimum charge should be 11.7 gr with a max of 13.0 for this weight bullet. I loaded several variations from 11.0 to 12.3 grains and tested them with my Sig P229 and I could not discern any major differences in accuracy. Obviously the flash and perceived recoil increased as the charge increased. My normal practice is to load as light a charge as I can that cycles the gun and results in sufficient accuracy. I figure the lighter charges are more economical and are easier on the gun. I'm not shooting competition so I don't need to make any sort of power factor. However, my Sig P229 failed to reset the trigger on several occasions which has never happened when I shoot this pistol when it is configured as a .40 S&W, This behavior did not seem to be affected by the size of powder charge - meaning that it happened at 11 grains but it also happened at 12+. So, here are my questions: 1) How is the charge related to the weight of the bullet? I ask because the minimum charge for the 125 grain bullet is 11.7 but for the 147 grain bullet it is only 9.4. I would have thought that the heavier bullet would have had a higher charge. If I can go lighter than the minimum without affecting function and accuracy that is what I'd like to do. 2) I read that 13 grains of AA9 was the 'magic load" for the 357Sig that supposedly produced the results closest to design performance. Is there any advantage for shooting at the max recommended charge? 3) What would be possible causes of the trigger not resetting properly? Thanks, in advance.

I just received my 550B press today, 7 1/2 weeks after I ordered it on 1/28/13.