The intenet is full of bad advice and dangerous loads. I've been reloading for 40 years, and I see ignorant advice all the time, partularly toward certain cartridges: .44 Magnum, .30-06, .45-70, .38 Special, .380 ACP, 9mm Luger, .45 ACP, .45 Long Colt, .357 Magnum and a few others.
Your best source is the manufacturer of the component.
I don't believe in the concept of "Lawyer Loads."
What I DO believe in is that instrumentation and the understanding of ballistics has advanced greatly in the past 15 years or so. Loads once considered slightly below maximum have been discovered to be maximum or greater, thanks to instruments that measure more accurately, and a better understanding of what occurs after the firing pin hits the primer.
Also, component manufacturers have to consider that some designs are weaker than others, so they have to tailor their recommendation to that weakness. Why? Because too many shooters are ignorant. They are either not familiar with their firearm's limitations, or refuse to acknowledge it.
Before you try to "Magnumize" 12 gauge slugs, measure the benefit against the detriment. You may gain a few dozen feet per second, perhaps 100 fps, but you'll strain your gun and cause its premature wear. It may also be damaged, or even experience what we experienced relaoders call, "an instant disassembly."
Shooting a few rounds proves nothing. It may take dozens of rounds before your gun is damaged or lets go.
The 12-gauge slug factory load has an exceptional reputation as a stopper. Guides in Africa use it to go after wounded lion in heavy brush. I know Canadians who rely on factory 12 gauge slugs to protect them from grizzly bears at close range -- and it's a proven performer.
The 12, 16 and 20-gauge slugs perform well beyond what their ballistics suggest.
Kinda hard to argue with success.
I wouldn't exceed what modern reloading books or the component manufacturer suggest. You may very well lose more than you gain.
|
