I just purchase a M&P9c in 9mm. I use Speer GDs in all my revolvers/pistols as a defensive load. I am interested in reloading and replicating Speer's 124 gr +P short barrel load in 9mm. Wondering if anyone has done some reloading work on this which I can use as a baseline.

Thanks,

Well to get a true picture you would need to chrono the Speer bullets out of your gun to get a true match. Much of the published data is, lets say "generous"? The load data tables would give you a idea of 124gr +P loads, but again it's just a guess without actual data.

I agree and I would do that. I have an Oehler 35P chronograph which I use extensively. I'm just looking for some recommended powders etc. I keep seeing Alliant Power Pistol and Vihtavouri 3n37 powders with the PP the most popular on 9mm+P loads. I was just hoping someone had done some workups.

I have done a lot of chrono work with 124 gr. and 147 gr. 9mm Gold Dots. The only 9mm I own is a Model 940 J Frame revolver with a 2" barrel. I get 1080 FPS with 147 gr. Gold Dots and 1180 FPS with 124 gr. Gold Dots. I use Power Pistol exclusively and I prefer the 147 gr. bullets. I'm reluctant to give you my powder charge because quite frankly my 940 is tougher than your M&P9. One thing I have noticed about the M&P9 is the dished out firing pin hole in the breechface. I have no idea why S&W does this but it causes a lot of primer flow, even with moderate loads. You can't go wrong with Power Pistol and I suggest you start with some published loads and work up.

Dave Sinko

Looking at some of my data I got 1055fps out of a 3.5" (6906) with the Speer 124 +P Short Barrel. Now everything I've loaded with 124gr lead, plated and jacketed bullets has been with Universal Clays and has all been shot from 5" gun so I can't really compare. I use 4.0grs with lead up to 4.9grs with jacketed for velocites running 1080-1170fps in that gun.

My Speer loading manual has a section on duplicating their factory loads with handloads. Saves a lot of guessing.

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Science plus Art

I'll second Power Pistol but again won't provide the load data I use except to say it's from a powder co. manual.
PP also shines in carbine type rifles chambered for pistol rounds such as 9Para and .45acp

What powders do you have? Speer 18 does not list a +P for the 9mm but the max loads are probably more than sufficient They tested out of a 4" barrel So should be good for your 3.5"

The highest velocity for the 124 GD was with HS-7, Blue Dot (not my favorite) AA #9, Unique.

Guess we can not post load data from manuals anymore due to copyright stuff.
Just go to the powders web sites for the loads.
PM me if you need specifics

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Still Running Against the Wind

Out of my M&P9c here's what I use with chrono results:

6.5 grains Power Pistol
Rainier 124 gr HP
Winchester Standard Small Pistol Primer
Federal cases

1187 fps, Extreme Spread 31fps

Out of the same gun the Speer 124 grain Gold Dot NON PLUS P chronos

1048 fps, Extreme Spread 46 fps

This factory load tested in gallon jugs of water passed through 3 jugs and was captured in the fourth. Here's a picture of the recovered bullet. Expanded to .564 inch.

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KSCowboy

How far where you from the jugs (of water)?

I carry the Speer short barrel 124"s

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Still Running Against the Wind

I was 10 feet back from the water jugs. And you get a little wet depending on the caliber and bullet!!

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KSCowboy

Thanks - I am convinced I will try Power Pistol first. I have the Speer reloading manual but never noticed a section on reloading data to duplicate their commercial loads. I will have to look for that.

I just saw a similar expansion test on t.v. that shot the 9mm GDs through a one gallon jug of water and three additional ones filled with wet newsprint. The expansion was text book and measured .75 inches. I believe it was on something called Gun Nuts but I could be wrong.

There isn't one for factory loads nor is there for +P 9mm as it already a high pressure round.

If you are sticking with Alliant powders the PP will work fine but you can get even more velocity(not much but a little) with Unique or Blue Dot. Blue Dot is kinda dirty unless it is near or at the max load. The advantage of the Speer short barrel bullets is the hollow point that will open/expand at lower velocities.

The best ballistic tests IMO is Brass Fetcher, they use ballistic gel. The Box of Truth is OK for the water jug stuff.

The do not have the Speer GD but have the Remington Golden Saber +P which is as good or better or doesn't matter.

Handguns

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Still Running Against the Wind

OCD 1 thanks for the site - very interesting. I had never been there before.

Your welcome. The Box is also kinda fun. Lots of pictures and shoot it up stuff, it has some practical value. I have tried some water jug tests but prefer using buckets filled with wet shredded newspaper, Harder to find the bullets but I think it's density is better than just water. The ballistic gel is the best and is what the FBI and other agencies go by.

The Box O' Truth - Ammo Penetration Testing

I found it!. Your Speer 124 gr.

http://www.theboxotruth.com/docs/bot10_2.htm

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Still Running Against the Wind