multiple manuals

[ghostrider]

when people are starting out in reloading, I always recommend they get at least 2 different loading manuals because loading data can vary significantly. I've found that its not uncommon for the minimum starting load in one manual to exceed the maximum load in another manual.

Also, newer editions of the same manual will often show 'lighter' loads than previous edition using the exact same components. On rare occasions the newer editions may show a 'heavier' load.

As example, here is a collection of loading data for a 158gr JHP in 357 magnum using Alliant 2400 powder:

source data
----------------------------

hornady #4: 11.5 - 13.5gr
hornady #7: 10.5 - 14.3gr
speer #11: 13.9 - 15.9gr
speer #12: 11.2 - 12.5gr
alliant: 14.8gr

loadswap.com: 12.0gr
reloadersnest.com: 14.7gr and 15.5gr

the midway loading manual shows loads that range from 9.5gr to 12.0gr depending on the bullet.

[CDH]

The powder manufacturer's web sites have lots of free data as well. Personally I like their data better than the bullet maker's data, but that is a personal thing.

[ghostrider]

I use Hodgdon's online data frequently:

http://data.hodgdon.com/main_menu.asp" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;