I have read you should not load below the reccomended starting load or more than 10% below maximum. Is this a general rule or can you safely go below the starting load by a small perecntage?

this recommendations refers to the posible detonation of slow burning powders if loaded in quantities to small. In general it only refers to powders such as 4831 or the like. fast burning powders, especially like pistol powders, don not carry the same warnings.

quote:

Originally posted by butchloc:
this recommendations refers to the posible detonation of slow burning powders if loaded in quantities to small. In general it only refers to powders such as 4831 or the like. fast burning powders, especially like pistol powders, don not carry the same warnings.

Thanks for the information butchloc much appreciate it.

quote:

Originally posted by steyrl:
I have read you should not load below the reccomended starting load or more than 10% below maximum. Is this a general rule or can you safely go below the starting load by a small perecntage?

As a rule I never load any slow powder from IMR 4350 down in reduced loads. The mid-range powders such as IMR 3031, IMR 4064, 4895, etc., seem to work well in reduced loads. I like these for cast-bullet loads with charges that are about half a case full or slightly more.

I've been reloading 100 gr half jacket plinkers for 30-30 marlin. First batch was 34 grains of IMR 3031. I would like to try something with less powder. Would something around 28 grains be safe? How low would be safe?

quote:

Originally posted by El Deguello:

quote:

Originally posted by steyrl:
I have read you should not load below the reccomended starting load or more than 10% below maximum. Is this a general rule or can you safely go below the starting load by a small perecntage?

As a rule I never load any slow powder from IMR 4350 down in reduced loads. The mid-range powders such as IMR 3031, IMR 4064, 4895, etc., seem to work well in reduced loads. I like these for cast-bullet loads with charges that are about half a case full or slightly more.

Here in Australia I'm working with a local powder manufactured by ADI. I believe the qivalent for 4350 is AR2209 and following your suggestion I should not use a reduced load. However, If I'm correct the equivalent for 4895 is AR2208 and maybe I can reduce the load. Firstly, I'll double check the powder equivalents chart before I make a final decision.
Thanks to one and all for their replies.

Best regards,

quote:

Originally posted by model20:
I've been reloading 100 gr half jacket plinkers for 30-30 marlin. First batch was 34 grains of IMR 3031. I would like to try something with less powder. Would something around 28 grains be safe? How low would be safe?

From one new member to another new member -"Gidday Mate" from Australia. Regretfully I cannot comment on your question as I'm using a 243W. I trust someone else on the Forum will be able to give you some advice.