.40 s&w cast loads?

[fal_762x51]

I have a question, well more then one. Background, these loads will hopefully be used in my Steyr M40a1 with a 4" barrel and in a Ruger PC4 with a 16" barrel. I usually reload for jacket or plated for this caliber, but only in 180 grain. So here it goes.

I ordered some Missouri Bullet Company IDP #7 (.401 caliber at 140 grains) to try out. I have not been able to find (online) any .40 s&w cast loads for this grain with the powder I have (HP-38). My Hodgdon manual calls for 6.0 grains for 135 grain JHP, but will it work with the 140 grain cast? Should I expand out and get another powder for cast pistol applications? I call upon the cast wizards for their opinions and any help they can give me.

-Patrick

[RobS]

You may want to work at 5.5 grains and work up. I can't tell you as to your success or not as it depends on your barrels groove diameters in relation to the size diameter of the bullets you have on order as a minimum. Make sure you are not over crimping; just enough to take the bell out of the case.

Best is to have slugged your barrel to ensure that you purchase bullets that are .001-.002 over groove diameter.

[fredj338]

No one should be loading lead bullets w/o the Lyman #49 manual. RObs 5.5gr load is already pushing the upper end, start around 5gr & work to 5.8gr max. FYI, W231 is a bit smokey fo rme & lead bullets in any caliber. I get terrific accuracy w/ Unique or WSF under 175-180gr LFP or lTC.

[RobS]

Lyman 48th Ed. Reloading Handbook

150 Grain TC cast bullet: Lyman# 401654
COAL 1.090

Start Charge:W231/HP-38 5.5g---1,079 fps---19,000 CUP
&
Max Charge: W231/HP-38 6.5g---1,195 fps---22,500 CUP

[geargnasher]

fal_762x51, try doing a search here for threads started by Gunnerd and Stainless1911 with regard to the .40, much good information for this rather diffucult cartridge.

Gear