Lee load data included with .38 Special 4-die set
for 125 Grain XTP:
Bullseye - start 4.0 grains - max 4.5

Hornady 8th edition for 125 Grain XTP:
Bullseye - START 4.5 - max 5.0 - +P 5.3

Quite a difference. This gives me pause about using any of the Lee data. Paranoia or prudence?

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noli illegitimi carborundum

I'll bet if you check Alliant Data, it will match the Lee data. They use a compilation of data from the powder companies.

I always start with the lowest data and work up. Its safer that way.

Alliant does not have data for the XTP they use the Gold Dot now.

LEE data is/was compiled from other sources whenever it was published it has not changed since then.

If you have the Hornady data who makes the bullet, use that.

Different tests, day, time, bullet, etc, etc.

You will find this in all bullets, calibers, sources.

0.5 grain in a 38 special case is no major deal to worry about.

Hornady is good that it gives you up to 6 different velocities.

Which shows the slower powders will give you more velocity especially if loading self defense loads.

To much of a fast powder like Bullseye will give to much pressure to fast. It is great for target loads.

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Still Running Against the Wind

Alliant data now matches Speer data since they belong to the same parent company. For a time after Alliant took over Hercules they had extremely low data in .38 Special and a few other handgun chamberings. As stated above Lee has compiled data from others for decades. No mystery exists. Lee is a good source but their data IS questionable just as ALL data is questionable. Multiple sources help one find a reasonable average but it still must be tested with your components in your guns.

Lee is quite conservative with their load data. You can usually exceed it by working up slowly, without seeing pressure signs.

That being said, if you want more than a 38 Special offers, buy a 357 Magnum.

I've used Lee data for .38, .45LC, 9mm with no problems at all, if anything, the are a little anemic. I use Berry's bullets for plinking and usually Hornady for social work.

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Endeavor to persevere. <><