Over 80 Years Of Handloading Data

as a foundation for some odd loadings. Since I always start low, as you always should, it usually works fine. The data of long ago is crude by todays testing criteria. I noted a Unique charge .38 Special load that was fine in the 1970's (seemed pretty snappy in my Police Positive Special) is today a starting .357 Magnum load in the more capacious hull!. Also very old loadings may have been worked up in the older style balloon head brass that hold LOTS more powder. This makes the same charge in thicker web cases much higher pressure.

But if you have a .401 WLS or .401 Herter's where do you start?!! The old manuals do help. Since I'm usually working with fabricated cases the conservative starting load really has saved my bacon. Less capacity (thicker brass) and a blow back action no less. But history is one of our greatest assets and should not be forsaken.