Steel and 3gun load for hybrid barrel

[sb3]

I'm looking for load suggestions as a starting point for a 9mm 5 port hybrid barrel, no comp. Really looking for something just for steel and outlaw 3gun, so PF is not really a concern just speed and accuracy (soft is good as well). I'm not stuck on any one powder and don't mind trying something else if its going to work best. Bullet suggestions are welcome as well. Currently have 124 JHP's and 147 FMJ's on hand but picking up something else (95's or 115's) isn't really an issue. I'm aware that a comp will soften things up but I'm more concerned with keeping it flat, snappy doesn't bother me too much just don't want to shoot a jackhammer. I don't have tons of experience with hybrid barrels and this gun is new to me so I don't really know where to start with powders. Do they need something slow like a running a comp or will a relatively fast powder work? I've done a lot of searching but haven't really turned up much information on hybrids without a comp or shooting open minor type loads.

For a little history, I have shot years of single stack and enjoy 3gun but a couple of years ago I suffered a torn ligament in my wrist and the joint pain and limitations are catching up with me. I realize my days of shooting major are drawing to a close and I am dedicating myself to making the most of minor, unfortunately there aren't a lot of resources for open minor so I guess this is going to force me to work hard and become one of those resources someday. I certainly don't want to give up shooting so I am looking for ways to adapt Any help I can get I truly appreciate.

Edited February 12, 2012 by sb3

[sb3]

Anyone??? I know I'm new here, just looking for a little experienced help. I have some thoughts as to where to start, just wanted to try an save myself excessive trial and error.

[sb3]

So I'm thinking HS-6 or 3n37 is a place to start. Thoughts, suggestions,anything?

[DougCarden]

Look at a faster powder, like W231 or Tightgroup. Look at the top end loads in the books and see what PF they run.

I would then put the lightest spring you can in your gun...probably 5-7lb.....load up some ammo and take it out and see what happens.

If you are not running major then forget about gas volume running the comp. The weight out there will take care of the minimal recoil you will have running minor loads.

It is gonna be a little trial and error but you should be close.

Good luck!

DougC

[Jody Waring]

I would try HS6. Even loads listed on the Hodgdon website would suffice for your particular needs. The fast powders might work too, although I would lead more towards something slower burning to work the ports. Autocomp or WSF might be worth looking at too. Good luck!

[Flatland Shooter]

So I'm thinking HS-6 or 3n37 is a place to start. Thoughts, suggestions,anything?

HS-6 and 3N37 are both good powders for making Major in most Open guns, but with all those ports it may be a problem for you.

Since a lower PF meets your needs, a faster powder might be better. Do you have any faster powders on hand you could experiment with?

Bill

[sb3]

Thanks a bunch for the suggestions. (keep them coming I truly appreciate the experienced advice) I have some N320 that I can experiment with as well. If a fast powder works well that would be great as I have noticed that slower often means dirty. Ideally whatever keeps the dot manageable and isn't abusive should fit the bill.