Thanks to all who helped on my other post about the length of the 9MM rounds. I loaded 18 rounds using Hornady 115 grain XTP bullets and IMR7625. I loaded 6 of 4.5 grains, 6 of 4.6, and 6 of 4.7. Max load is 4.9 so if the 4.6 and 4.7 are good then I'll stick with those.

One thing that happened is that the COL was never exactly the same. One would be 1.082, the next 1.084, the next 1.079. I figure the brass is mixed so there's probably variances.

Lastly, I think this XTP is too nice to shoot at paper! Bullet looks pretty wicked. I'm gonna load it all (500 rounds) but might just hold onto them. Start loading regular fmj rounds to shoot at the range.

Gonna shoot the 18 rounds tomorrow. Here's hoping I still have 10 fingers when I'm done!

Save $ get the hap jhp. Basically the same. Your paper will thank you.
And case length will not affect col.

That much variance in case length is OK. The seater usually makes contact on the bullet part way down the nose and not right on the end (depending on which seater/bullet you use). The geometry of the bullets are not all identical, so you will get some OAL variance. Just try to set it so your average OAL is in the ballpark of where you want it.

Mike

Precision Delta HP's use the about same COAL as Hornady and they are a cost effective option for targets.

https://precisiondelta.com/index.php...llet/9mm.html/

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"One thing that happened is that the COL was never exactly the same. One would be 1.082, the next 1.084, the next 1.079."

That's actually extremely good , especially for pistol rounds. Let us know how they worked?

If you measure a box of factory ammo, you will find the same variance in COAL

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Congratulations, and welcome to reloading. One other idea for you. I set my seater to properly seat the standard FMJ to spec and never adjust it for other bullut shapes. They're always within a reasonable spec, and they always function well. Your results may vary.

Good choice on 7625.. 4.8 to 4.9 gr has been my goto load for years in most of my Smith 9`swith a 124 gr jacketed bullet. Congrats on your new skills and have fun.
Happy New Year too.
Jim

With a newer 9mm pistol I do not see a problem..
They will take a beating...... even the $199 Hi-Power.

Most data is for the low pressure 9mm luger and todays pistols
are set up for NATO and +P loads....... plenty of buffer safety area.

Congratulations on getting it done..............
and welcome to the 9mm club.

Do you realize how very tiny a few thousands of an inch really is?
Not to worry, you are doing fine. Don't forget the range report...

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SWCA #3437

SUCCESS! Fired 2 rounds each through my 3 guns, a beretta m9, a Ruger lc9-s, and a Ruger SR9. 2 rounds of 4.5, 4.6, and 4.7 through each gun. 18 rounds total. All functioned fine and recovered brass looks fine.

So I'm gonna settle on 4.6 grains. No use wasting powder for paper punching. Maybe increase the COL a hair to an even 1.100.

Very cold today and my hands were numb after 10 minutes. Time to load up this winter!

Great Job! I use the Lee 4 die set with separate bullet seater/Factory Crimp Die. I can keep my COL within +/- .002-.003. No worries, you're doing fine :-)

Thanks. I use the Lee 4 die sets as well. Also for the .38 Special. I like crimping separately.

I know the "New" loads helped you get out and test your loads.
You are a little braver than I..................

I try to get out only when the weather is dry and above 40 degrees, with no wind. 48 or higher is even better !!

Wow!!
THREE 9mm's to shoot..................that is sweet.

Have fun.

Not so critical with pistol…..BUT, you mentioned it was cold when you shot. Some powders are very sensitive to temperature, so be aware that the velocities (and pressure) will vary from near freezing to 100 degree outdoor temperatures. As I said, rifles are more prone to a problem where pressure becomes a factor, but with pistol, point of impact and groups might vary with outdoor temperature.
Just a point of information that many people overlook.

I load my 9mm with uniform cases (sorted by manufacturer), 125gr Montana Gold HP bullets and 5gr VVN330. Accuracy is remarkable. My Performance Center 9mm will hold 2" @50yds from a rest.

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Terry
SWCA, SWHS, IWLA, NRA

Once I set my seating die for the COL I want, I don't even bother to measur3e another round. A few thousandths either way isn't an issue. Don't overthink COLs.

I still remember my first few rounds loaded.I could not wait to get to the range and try them out. Welcome! The fun is just beginning.