Need Major Load for N320, 180 gr. TCFM bullet in polymer gun

[Bobwat]

I am new to loading 40 major and looking for a load, or validation, in using N320 with a 180 gr. TCFM Zero bullet in a 5" M&P Pro that I just built for a limited gun. I have searched and have found a lot of loads on this forum using N320 at a 1.18 or 1.20 OAL for an STI or like, but not much for a load around 1.125 to 1.135 OAL that is safe and will make major (around 170pf). The VV load book only shows N320 for a 180 gr. LTC bullet with a max charge of 4.1 gr. I have not tried 4.1 gr. with the 180 TCFM bullets, but from what I have read I don't think that it will make major. I may also try Titegroup, as that is what I use for 9mm minor Production, but thought that N320 is the preferred powder for 40 major. If you have any other suggestions for different powders /loads that have worked for you in a polymer gun please post those as well. I am looking for the least amount of recoil to make major. Thanks,

Bobwat

[The_Vigilante]

I think N340 would be better suited for .40 S&W as far as reaching Major.

[azgoose]

Do not use Titegroup with the shorter OAL. It burns too hot and too fast, you'll get pressure spikes. The Glocks that have kaboomed on 180gr's had one thing in common, Titegroup. You need to make 945FPS with a 180gr bullet to make 170pf. I'd start @ 3.8gr of n320 and work up from there. As always, check for signs of excess pressure.

For the record, I like Titegroup, it is a really nice powder. I use it in my 147gr 9mm loads. It just doesn't suit 180gr 40cal loads with a short OAL. That bullet takes up quite a bit of space where as a 155gr or 165gr bullet takes up less and is safer to use with Titegroup.

[azgoose]

My 40 Major load is:

• 180gr RN Berry's
• 5.8 - 5.9gr (floating on the edge) Winchester AutoComp
• CCI 500 or 550 primer
• 1.135 - 1.140 OAL (it fits in my barrel, YMMV)

This gives me a nice push feeling on recoil and provides some fairly fast follow-ups.

[blu46and2]

5.1 or 5.2 grains of N320 get's it in several 5inch 2011's with 180 gr jacketed bullets.....I'm loading to OAL of about 1.20-1.22