Reloading question
 

I am used to reloading my ammo right out of my manuals, but recently, due to the economy and the lack of available supplies, I decided to try Barry's plated bullets in 147 gr 9mm. I am unable to find a direct recipe for these bullets. I understand the important factor is the sectional density. My manual says the sec density for a 147 gr FMJ bullet is 0.167, but a plated bullet will be different, won't it? Or, am I splitting hairs?
Thanks for any help.

Sectional density?
 

ChuchMc, you have to be the first handloader I have ever seen that was concerned at all on sectional density on a PISTOL load. To me that spec. is not of a concern.My Lyman 48th Reloading Handbook lists a Speer TMJ #4006 147gr. at 0.167SD-Lyman cast #356637 147gr. at 0.166SD. The difference is due to the TMJ is .355dia.-Lyman cast is .356dia. Are your Berry's bullets Hard Cast, or Plated? My Handbook lists 12 different powders for the TMJ bullet, and 13 different powders for the Lyman cast 147gr. bullet. Should be easy to find your own recipe for your 147gr. 9mm, but I don't worry about Sectional Density in handgun loads.:eek:

OK, maybe I didn't make myself very clear and I must have edited my post after you read it. :o These are the plated bullets. I was told that the sectional density would be different than a FMJ and the only recipe I have is for a FMJ in this cal. and grain of bullet. My qestion is, should I use a recipe for a FMJ in the same grain bullet as the plated bullet and is the difference so minimal that it is of no real concern?
All I'm trying to do is be sure I'm reloading responsibly. My kids might be shooting these rounds. I also wouldn't want to damage my new XD :eek:

I don't for see a problem with loading using data for a FMJ and not a platted. I use FMJ and lead in my 45acp and use the same amount for each.

Powder volume is based solely on bullet length & weight and subsequent pressure developed, not bullet construction. Terminal performance is a function of bullet construction. Sectional density is only a concern when comparing the BC (ballistic coefficient) of various bullet designs. A cursory glance at any reloading manual will reveal that loads are based on bullet weights, not sectional density...

Would agree with one exception- loads for lead cast bullets are generally slower than for jacketed (full or semi) due to problems with leading up a barrel. Plated bullets tend to reduce leading.

Berry's (not Barry's) reccomends limiting loads to 1200 fps or less.

A plated bullet will have a VERY thin layer of plating metal over lead, vs a jacketed bullet, that has a significant layer of gilding metal (usually copper/nickel alloy)

Bottom line- I would use load data for a lead cast bullet with plated bullets.

Plated bullets tend to "act like cast bullets" as far as pressures and velocities for a given charge. They just are much less likely to lead the barrel. You can use the same data as you would for a 147gr FMJ, BUT your velocity may be higher than with the FMJ. Generally jacketed bullets are more "sticky" than cast or plated bullets and take more powder to acheive a given velocity.

As with any load developemnt, reduce and work up. You will likely find that you there is a sweet spot about 1/2 - 1 1/2 grains under max in the 9mm.

This is all you need to do. I also load plated bullets in my 40. C3shooter is right on the money.

Thank you guys for the info. I would rather be safe than sorry and would rather ask a stupid question than make a stupid mistake.
Thanks again, Chuck

Great to be Safe!!
 

Good call Chuck. I load 124 or 125gr Berry's Plated Bullets usually right in-between cast/jacketed specs.(Hi side of cast/Lo side of JHP). They/ along with all I load for my CZ P-01 do well. The usual rule-of-thumb, is to keep Hard Cast Bullets at, or below 1000fps. to avoid excessive leading of the barrel. Some will load above that speed, but I am lazy when it comes to De-Leading my barrels! HA!!:D:D
Also Chuck, it's Great to see you sharing our favorite hobby, with your children. As the Wife, and I did- Teach them young, proper firearms safety, and work to avoid mistakes later on. We worked with 4-(Now the oldest 33-the youngest 24), and they all practice proper firearms etiquette.:D:):