I have a box of 500, 180gr LFN for 40 SW. None of my load books have load data for them.
I want to use HP38/W231.

I have data for 180gr xtp start of 4.1 to 5.0
and Lyman lists for 175gr alloy of 4.3 to 5.8

So for my 180 cast LFN I was thinking 4.1 to 4.5 to start. Does this sound OK?

Thanks.

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Still Running Against the Wind

I use commercial cast lead 180gr FN bullets in my M&P40. I load 4.4 gr of 231 and it works fine, a bit softer than factory ammo.

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I shoot, therefore I am.

Thanks, that was about were I thought would be good. Just for paper punching, as long as it cycles the gun is fine with me.

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Still Running Against the Wind

Any other input?? Sure is quiet around here

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Still Running Against the Wind

The Lyman data for a 175gr LRNFP bullet is a good place to start. You should use the data for a lead bullet instead of the Jacketed bullet data. I would go with the 4.4gr W231 charge that "RON in PA" suggested as your starting point.

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Freedom is never free!!
SWCA #3437

Because I am old, I can't remember what you are shooting these 40S&W in. For me that is the deciding factor as to what data I use.

I think HP-38/W231 is a good powder for 40S&W loads with lead bullets. Not only that but there are a ton of other calibers you can use that powder for. Tons of it has been used for target type 38spl and 45ACP loads for more years than I can remember.

Personally, because I have had bad results when using Lyman data for this cartridge, I would double check Hodgdon's data for useful data, or call them.

Otherwise, your first thoughts sound pretty good.

Have fun and be safe.

That's OK cause I am old too (not as old as you) but I never said what I was using it in.
Sig 229, 239. Sold the Glock. But I still have way more Smith's than any other.

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Still Running Against the Wind

for reference: 1911, 4", 40S&W, 14 lb recoil spring, i grip hard !, 3.2 AA2, 180 truncated cone, wsr primer. if you don't grip it use a 12.5 spring. approx. 750 fps.

I am going to get an aftermarket barrel for my new Glock 22 RTF then I am going to get a Lee 6 cavity mold and go to town!


I will probably use SR4756 for a propellant though. It will give better velocity with less pressure. Something I see as a win/win in this caliber!

Plus, I am going to start shooting IDPA soon. I'll need cheap ammo for practice.

I was shooting plated through the Glock 23 but could just not get used to the feel (recoil and feeling of the springs in my grip) compared to the alloy frame Sig. Did not want to spend the money for a fully supported barrel and one that would shoot lead. My Glock 19 is a whole different gun and is a pleasure to shoot still not my favorite but a nice gun just the same.

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Still Running Against the Wind

I think the load data that came with my Lee dies has a 180gr lead load I will have to check tomorrow when I am at the shop.

Anyway I am currently loading 170gr lead SWC from MBC and I am running 4.6 gr of HP-38, this is about middle of the road according to the lee data as the starting load for 170 is 4.0 and the maximum is 5.2

I am not sure if that helps you at all but I will check the data tomorrow after work and get back with you if I have any data for a 180 gr lead bullet.

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Drew

Drew, Thanks. I have the Lee data and it lists a 180gr lead but not with HP38/W231.
It lists the 180gr XTP HP38 4.1-5.0

I loaded some of mine at 4.5 gr HP38
Was going to try and shoot today but it is pouring rain.Maybe if it lets up a bit. We do need it!

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Still Running Against the Wind

Got to do some shooting today. The 4.5grs of HP38 with the 180 gr LRN worked just fine. I could not "perceive" much differance between the same load and 180 plated bullets. Without a chrono I have no way to tell.
I probably can drop it down to 4.1 and have a nice easy "target" load.

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Still Running Against the Wind