Understanding the Power Behind the Shot: Introducing American Select Powder
Reloading your own ammunition can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy the shooting sports. However, it’s a serious undertaking that demands respect for safety protocols and a thorough understanding of the process. This article provides essential information on American Select powder, a popular choice among reloaders, focusing on load data, safety practices, and helpful reloading techniques for both handgun and shotgun applications. Remember, responsible reloading is paramount, and this information is a starting point. Always consult the latest reloading manuals and sources for confirmed, tested data specific to your components.
American Select powder is a versatile, fast-burning propellant favored by shooters for its performance in a variety of applications. It’s known for its relatively clean burn and consistency, making it a popular choice for both handgun and shotgun reloading. Its popularity stems from its effectiveness across several common calibers and gauges. Understanding the characteristics of American Select is key to using it safely and effectively.
This propellant has a specific burn rate, which influences the pressure curve within the cartridge or shell. The burn rate determines how quickly the powder turns into expanding gas, which pushes the projectile down the barrel. This characteristic dictates the appropriate loads, bullet weights, and overall performance. Reloaders seeking consistent results often gravitate towards powders like American Select, understanding that consistent performance is crucial for accuracy and safety.
When considering American Select, it’s essential to consider the source. Look for current batches from reputable suppliers. Consistent quality from batch to batch is critical for safe and reliable reloading. Always refer to published load data, and cross-reference information with reputable sources to guarantee safety and optimal results.
Safety First: The Cornerstone of Responsible Reloading
Reloading ammunition is an inherently dangerous process. Any mistake can lead to severe injury or damage to your firearm. Prioritizing safety is not just recommended, it’s absolutely mandatory. Before beginning any reloading session, ensure you are in a well-lit, well-ventilated area free from distractions.
A well-equipped reloading bench is essential. Here’s a checklist of essential items:
- Reloading Press: The central hub for resizing cases, seating primers, and seating bullets.
- Dies: Specific to the caliber or gauge being reloaded. These include resizing dies, seating dies, and crimping dies.
- Scale: Crucial for precisely measuring powder charges. Digital scales are recommended for their accuracy and ease of use.
- Powder Dispenser: Ensures consistent powder charges. Choose a quality dispenser designed for the type of powder you are using.
- Case Trimmer: Precisely trims cases to the correct length.
- Primer Seater: For seating primers.
- Case Preparation Tools: Includes tools for cleaning, deburring, and chamfering case mouths.
- Calipers: For measuring case lengths, bullet dimensions, and overall cartridge length.
- Reloading Manuals: The definitive source for safe load data. Invest in up-to-date manuals from reputable sources.
- Safety Glasses: Eye protection is non-negotiable.
- Ear Protection: Necessary to prevent hearing damage.
- Gloves: Wearing gloves can help to protect your skin from powder and cleaning agents.
Preparing cases correctly is a cornerstone of safe reloading. This involves several important steps. Start by thoroughly cleaning the cases, removing any debris or residue. Next, trim the cases to the correct length, ensuring they are within specifications. Deburr and chamfer the case mouths to ensure proper bullet seating. Lastly, clean the primer pockets to remove old primer residue, which can interfere with the seating of a new primer.
Primer selection is another vital consideration. Always use the correct primer type for the load you are building and the type of powder. Ensure primers are stored properly and handled carefully to avoid any accidental detonation.
Powder handling is equally critical. Store your American Select powder in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Handle it with care, and always weigh each charge accurately. Overcharging a cartridge can cause a dangerous pressure spike.
Using a chronograph to measure the velocity of your loads is highly recommended. This allows you to confirm that your loads are performing as expected and that the pressure is within safe limits.
Remember these crucial safety practices:
- Never exceed the maximum powder charge listed in your reloading manual.
- Always double-check all steps in the reloading process.
- Inspect all brass cases for any signs of damage before reloading.
- Be alert for pressure signs when testing new loads, such as flattened primers, difficult extraction, or bulging cases.
- Reload in a designated area free from distractions.
- Keep your reloading bench organized and clean.
- Take breaks if you feel tired or distracted.
Adhering to these principles will significantly increase your chances of a safe and successful reloading experience with American Select powder and all other propellants.
Load Data: A Guide to Using American Select Powder in Handguns
Load data is a critical component of the reloading process. It provides a starting point for loading, but always remember it is essential to start with reduced loads and work up gradually. Using published data in conjunction with careful observation is the key to safe reloading. These are examples only; always consult up-to-date and reliable reloading manuals, and never deviate from established load data.
Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Bullet Weight and Type: 115 grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
- Starting Powder Charge: 4.5 grains of American Select powder
- Maximum Powder Charge: 5.0 grains of American Select powder
- Primer: Small Pistol
- Casing: Standard 9mm Luger
- Velocity Range: Expect to achieve velocities in the range of 1050-1150 feet per second (FPS) depending on barrel length. *Note: Velocity will vary depending on components and firearm.*
Caliber: .45 Automatic Colt Pistol
- Bullet Weight and Type: 230 grain Round Nose (RN)
- Starting Powder Charge: 5.3 grains of American Select powder
- Maximum Powder Charge: 6.0 grains of American Select powder
- Primer: Large Pistol
- Casing: Standard .45 ACP
- Velocity Range: You can anticipate velocities in the range of 780-850 FPS depending on barrel length. *Note: Velocity will vary depending on components and firearm.*
Load Data: A Guide to Using American Select Powder in Shotguns
Reloading shotgun shells with American Select powder can produce reliable and effective results when following precise guidelines. Shotgun reloading requires careful attention to detail, as the components can influence performance greatly. Proper wad selection, along with consistent shot and powder charges, is paramount to safety. Always cross-reference data with multiple sources.
Gauge: 12-Gauge
- Shot Weight: 1 ounce of #7.5 shot
- Shell Length: 2.75 inches
- Starting Powder Charge: 17.0 grains of American Select powder
- Maximum Powder Charge: 18.0 grains of American Select powder
- Primer: 209
- Wad: Appropriate wad for 1 oz. shot, check loading manual
- Casing: Standard 12 gauge
- Velocity Range: Expect speeds in the neighborhood of 1200-1250 FPS. *Note: Velocity will vary depending on components and firearm.*
Gauge: 20-Gauge
- Shot Weight: 7/8 ounce of #8 shot
- Shell Length: 2.75 inches
- Starting Powder Charge: 16.0 grains of American Select powder
- Maximum Powder Charge: 17.0 grains of American Select powder
- Primer: 209
- Wad: Appropriate wad for 7/8 oz. shot, check loading manual
- Casing: Standard 20 gauge
- Velocity Range: Expect speeds in the neighborhood of 1150-1200 FPS. *Note: Velocity will vary depending on components and firearm.*
Remember that these are only starting points. Always start with the minimum charge and increase it gradually, observing your brass and the firearm carefully.
*Important notes for ALL loads:*
- The information presented is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for the detailed instructions and safety precautions found in reputable reloading manuals.
- Always consult a current, verified reloading manual from a reputable source like Hodgdon or Alliant.
- These suggested loads are for guidance and may not be compatible with all firearms, bullets, or components.
- Powder charges may vary based on individual components and the specific reloading data provided.
- Never alter or modify load data without verified sources.
Reloading Techniques: Refining Your Approach with American Select Powder
Precision and consistency are key to achieving optimal results. Here are some helpful techniques to enhance your reloading process:
Accurate powder dispensing is essential. When using American Select, it is advisable to use a good quality powder measure. Inspect your powder charges on the scale periodically to ensure consistent powder weights. Consistent charges are critical for consistent performance. Consider using a powder trickler for fine-tuning.
Bullet seating should be consistent and uniform. Seat bullets to the specified overall cartridge length (OAL) for your load. Incorrect seating depth can increase pressure and affect accuracy. Ensure bullets are seated straight into the case.
For handgun loads, achieving a proper crimp is crucial. Crimp the bullet to the case, ensuring it’s secure enough to hold the bullet during handling and firing, but not so tight as to damage the bullet or case. Consult your reloading manual for crimp specifications.
For shotgun shells, the crimp is an integral part of the load. Ensure that the crimp is correctly formed and consistent across all the loaded shells.
Troubleshooting is a necessary part of reloading. Common issues include squib loads, stuck cases, and primer malfunctions. A squib load is when the primer fires but the powder does not. This results in the bullet being lodged in the barrel. *Never* fire a round if you suspect a squib load; clear the obstruction and assess the firearm. If a case gets stuck in the resizing die, use a case extractor and lubrication to remedy the problem. If a primer doesn’t seat properly, ensure the primer pocket is clean and the primer is seated correctly.
Pressure signs in handguns include flattened primers, cratering around the firing pin indentation, difficult extraction, and bulging brass. In shotguns, pressure signs can include blown primers, bulged cases, and an irregular shot pattern. If you notice any of these signs, stop reloading immediately and consult your reloading manual or an experienced reloader.
Always prioritize safety. Keep all components organized and your bench clean. Always check for any signs of degradation in your components such as bullets, cases and primers.
Conclusion: Reloading with Confidence, Reloading with American Select Powder
Reloading with American Select powder offers an opportunity to tailor your ammunition to your specific needs and improve your shooting experience. It’s a process that requires dedication, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to safety. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and consistently consulting reputable reloading manuals and sources, you can enjoy the benefits of hand loading. Remember, starting with proper techniques, understanding the powder’s characteristics, and maintaining a safe, organized workspace are crucial components of successful reloading. This empowers the reloader to create tailored loads and improve overall proficiency with handguns and shotguns. Always continue to learn and explore reputable reloading practices.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous and should only be undertaken by those who have a thorough understanding of the process and the risks involved. I am not responsible for any injuries, damages, or accidents resulting from the use of this information. Always consult and follow the instructions provided in a reputable reloading manual and from a qualified professional. Always prioritize safety.
