40 S&W Load Data

[chevyman]

I'm wanting to try out some 155gr plated bullets from Rainier, would I use the same powder charge as I do with 155gr Speer TMJ?  For those I use 10gr of BlueDot. Any suggestions?

[papajohn]

The TMJ's use thicker jackets and stiffer cores than the Rainiers, so from a safety standpoint you should be fine, but I'd counsel against pushing them too hard, nothing past 1000 fps or so.  I don't have any Blue Dot data handy but that sounds a bit hot to me.......is it a sanctioned load? 

My standard 40 practice load uses a 165-or 180-grain plated (Rainier) bullet over a charge of Power Pistol, velocity is a shade over 900 and accuracy and brass life are good.  I've loaded 40's a lot hotter, but the negatives outweighed the positives, so I quit.  Personally, I'd bet that velocities in the 800-850 fps range would be more accurate. 

[DaveBone]

I have good luck with Hodgdon HS6 powder. I use it behind 180 grain JFP though.