Loading 9mm +P with Speer Gold Dots - pt 1 - Powder Selection

Published on September 21, 2016
Duration: 38:19

This video details the process of selecting powders and developing loads for 9mm +P ammunition using Speer Gold Dot 124-grain bullets. The presenter, Johnny, emphasizes the importance of powder selection, utilizing ballistic simulation software like QuickLOAD, and conducting thorough chronograph testing to achieve safe and effective +P velocities. He stresses the inherent risks of reloading high-pressure ammunition and the necessity of prior component testing and personal responsibility.

Quick Summary

Reloading 9mm +P ammunition requires careful powder selection to achieve safe velocities without exceeding 38,500 psi. Using ballistic software like QuickLOAD and conducting chronograph testing with components like Speer Gold Dot 124gr bullets and CCI No. 500 primers is crucial for developing reliable loads.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: Shooting 9mm +P Gold Dots
  2. 01:04Previous Testing Issues & Video Structure
  3. 02:18Focus: Powder Selection for +P Loads
  4. 03:00Speer Factory Ammo Specs & Initial Test Results
  5. 04:13Safety Warning: Risks of +P Reloading
  6. 07:05Powder Selection Process & QuickLOAD Use
  7. 08:44Powders Eliminated (BE86, WSF, Auto-Comp, CFE Pistol)
  8. 09:57Powder Burn Rate Explained (Fast vs. Slow)
  9. 11:28QuickLOAD Data Analysis & Spreadsheet Overview
  10. 13:19Caution: Competition vs. Standard Chambers
  11. 15:01Analyzing QuickLOAD Results: Bullseye, Titegroup, HP-38
  12. 16:43Analyzing Slow Powders: Lil' Gun, 2400, Accurate No. 7
  13. 18:03Analyzing Longshot & Target Velocity Range
  14. 19:19Whittling Down to 7 Powders & Blue Dot Anomaly
  15. 20:51Selecting Powders for Initial Testing: Power Pistol, Unique
  16. 21:53Additional Powders for Testing: Blue Dot, Silhouette, Accurate No. 7
  17. 23:17Plan for the Mini-Series: Velocity Testing
  18. 24:18Brass Selection: Nickel-Plated Speer
  19. 25:05Primer Selection: CCI No. 500
  20. 25:48Finalizing Load Data & Charge Weights
  21. 28:45Preparing Brass for Loading
  22. 30:35Loading Process: Power Pistol First Charge
  23. 31:12Measuring Factory Ammo OAL
  24. 32:57Bullet Seating Die Setup
  25. 34:35Crimp Application
  26. 35:01Compressed Loads & OAL Watch
  27. 35:31First 10 Rounds Complete: Power Pistol
  28. 35:51Powder Visuals: Power Pistol, HS6, Silhouette, Blue Dot, Acc. #7, Longshot
  29. 36:54Conclusion & Next Steps: Range Day

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary consideration when reloading 9mm +P ammunition?

The primary consideration when reloading 9mm +P ammunition is powder selection. Choosing a powder with the correct burn rate is crucial to achieve desired velocities without exceeding the safe pressure limit of 38,500 psi, avoiding both premature pressure spikes and case capacity issues.

How can reloaders determine safe load data for 9mm +P Speer Gold Dot bullets?

Reloaders can determine safe load data by using ballistic simulation software like QuickLOAD to predict performance at 38,500 psi and by conducting meticulous chronograph testing with various charge weights. It's essential to start with known safe components and work up loads cautiously.

What are the recommended components for reloading 9mm +P Speer Gold Dot ammunition?

For 9mm +P Speer Gold Dot 124-grain bullets, recommended components include CCI No. 500 primers and nickel-plated brass, ideally sourced from factory Speer Gold Dot ammunition. The overall length should be set to 1.120 inches.

Why are fast-burning powders like Bullseye not ideal for 9mm +P reloading?

Fast-burning powders like Bullseye are generally not ideal for 9mm +P reloading because they tend to burn too quickly, causing pressure to spike before the bullet reaches a high velocity. This limits the amount of powder that can be safely used to achieve the desired +P velocities.

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