trango

I don't have a chrono, but know a guy that does. I'll follow up when I have some data.

Hey guys, This will be my first time reloading and I'm having bit of trouble finding starting data for the components I've been able to acquire. Powder is scarce in my area and I have ended up with 1lb of IMR PB. I've got some 180gr lead Bayou bullets that have just come in. The issue is that I can't find a starting load. From the IMR/Hodgdon website for PB powder: 180gr BERB FP starts at 4.7 max 5.1 180gr XTP starts at 4.1 max 4.5 From Modern Reloading 2nd Ed: 180 gr Lead: Power Pistol 6.5 to 6.9 Unique 5.2 to 5.5 Amer-Select 4.6 to 5.0 I contacted IMR directly and they said they have no load data for PB with 180gr lead. I was considering just starting at 3.5gr just to be safe and work up to something that cycles reliably. I'm shooting club matches that don't have a PF requirement, although I'd like to meet 40 minor. I'm sorry to be fishing for recipes, but I've really hit a wall and want to be cautious with my first batch. Thanks folks!

Thanks for the feedback! I'll start checking out the 40 minor threads

I've started doing some local club matches, mainly 'practical tactical' and some steel matches. The 'practical' matches are a combination of 1/2/or 3gun that changes each month. The main thing is that there's no power factor requirement. I'm also starting to reload and need to order my bullets. As I'm just getting started, I'm using my stock XD40 4". I've read a lot about heavy and slow, or small and fast. What weight bullet should I look for to get a soft shooting load. Also, what's a good source for cheap lead bullets? I've come accross MIssourri Bullet Co and Bayou Bullets Thanks,