Hodgdon's Basic Reloading Manual

The 2016 issue of THE COMPLETE BOOK OF RELOADING contains a collection of data from Hodgdon, providing you with three powder reloading manuals in one. Reloading data is included from three powder companies: Hodgdon, IMR and Winchester Smokeless Propellants. Data is listed for the most popular rifle and pistol cartridges. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date reload data, including the most recent new caliber introductions, go to the Reloading Data Center at http://www.hodgdon.com or call 913-362-9455.

Warnings:

For all powders, use only the components shown. If the reloader makes any changes in components or gets new lot numbers, he should begin again with the starting loads and work up to a maximum cautiously.

For those loads listed where a starting load is not shown, start 10% below the suggested maximum load and then approach maximums carefully, watching for any sign of pressure (difficult extraction, cratered and flattened or blown primers, and unusual recoil).

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Powder left in the reloader’s powder measure hoppers for extended periods, overnight or several days, should be avoided. Powder needs to be stored in original containers ONLY when not in use. Numerous modern smokeless powders are double base in construction, containing both Nitrocellulose and Nitroglycerine. Many powder measures currently available use an inexpensive plastic containing polystyrene, which Nitroglycerine adversely affects when contact is made for extended periods of time, resulting in etching or misshaping the plastic. Normal usage during the reloading process does not provide adequate time for this to occur, so simply draining hoppers into the original containers when the reloading is completed for the day, prevents ruining the hoppers.

• 40 S&W: This data is intended for use in firearms with barrels that fully support the cartridge in the chamber. Use of this data in firearms that do not fully support the cartridge may result in bulged cases, ruptured cases, case-head separation or other conditions that may result in damage to the firearm and/or result in injury or death of the shooter and/or bystanders.

• 45-70 Government (Trapdoor Rifle): These data are intended for Springfield “Trapdoor,” Rolling Block and Antique Replicas.

Max loads that show an asterisk following the “C” for compressed load will not fit with standard 7828. Reduce by 4%.

Loads listed are maximum, do not exceed, reduce by 10% to start. For complete data, visit http://www.hodgdon.com.

Please verify all loads and data before using. Not responsible for typos or out-of-date material at the time of publishing. Responsibility for safety of ammunition rests solely with the end-user.