Uncle R.
09-08-2009, 05:35 PM
Hi All:
I recently acquired a Beretta 96 in near new condition. This is my first experience with the .40 S&W. Since factory ammo is currently expensive and scarce and once-fired brass is plentiful and cheap I'm thinking about loading for it. With decades of casting and reloading experience I'm not a newbie - but my auto pistol loading experience is limited to the .380 and the .45 ACP. I've read and heard that 40s are problematic to load for - even dangerous in some cases. (ie: Glock & lead - or Glock w/"bulged" cases.) My gunsmith buddy once advised me in firm tones to avoid .40s altogether - says they're more trouble than they're worth and none too safe even sometimes with factory ammo. Although I sometimes ignore his advice [smilie=1: I still respect his judgment. The whole situation seems well worthy of a slow and cautious approach to developing loads - so I'm asking advice of those who've been there already.
I need to come up with an inexpensive practice load that simulates full-power "service" loads in recoil and accuracy.
Questions:
Does the Beretta barrel support the case better than the Glock?
What boolits have given you good results in the 96? With what loads?
Are there any specific tips or warnings applicable to loading cast for the Beretta 96?
<
Thanks in advance for any information that will help.
Uncle R.
I recently acquired a Beretta 96 in near new condition. This is my first experience with the .40 S&W. Since factory ammo is currently expensive and scarce and once-fired brass is plentiful and cheap I'm thinking about loading for it. With decades of casting and reloading experience I'm not a newbie - but my auto pistol loading experience is limited to the .380 and the .45 ACP. I've read and heard that 40s are problematic to load for - even dangerous in some cases. (ie: Glock & lead - or Glock w/"bulged" cases.) My gunsmith buddy once advised me in firm tones to avoid .40s altogether - says they're more trouble than they're worth and none too safe even sometimes with factory ammo. Although I sometimes ignore his advice [smilie=1: I still respect his judgment. The whole situation seems well worthy of a slow and cautious approach to developing loads - so I'm asking advice of those who've been there already.
I need to come up with an inexpensive practice load that simulates full-power "service" loads in recoil and accuracy.
Questions:
Does the Beretta barrel support the case better than the Glock?
What boolits have given you good results in the 96? With what loads?
Are there any specific tips or warnings applicable to loading cast for the Beretta 96?
<
Thanks in advance for any information that will help.
Uncle R.