Change in ammo = big difference?

[5.0Driver]

Went to the range last week to break in my new XD9. I was making 4-5 inch groups using S&B and Magtech ammo. Then I switched to my friends reloads and I was all over the place. Shooting at a distance of 20 feet. My 4 inch groupings became 12 inch groupings. My friend was using the same ammo in his Sig 226 yet he was dead on. 2-3 inch groupings for him.

Anyone know what the problem could have been? When I switched back things went back to normal.

[ElDub1950]

Sounds normal to me.
Different ammo performs differently.

[perpetual otter]

A 12 inch group in comparison to a 2-4 inch group? You sure you didn't just simply have a bad range day?

[tal3nt]

At 20 feet, the crappiest of crappy reloads should hit accurately still for the most part. As long as they actually go bang.

[tal3nt]

Maybe his rounds had a stronger charge, so you were anticipating recoil (jerking) more than you were with your weaker loads?

[5.0Driver]

A 12 inch group in comparison to a 2-4 inch group? You sure you didn't just simply have a bad range day?

It was just odd. Here's how it went that day.

50 rounds S&B: Good 4 inch groups
50 rounds Magtech: Good same groups
20 rounds reloads: Bad
50 rounds S&B: Good 4-5 inch groups

[5.0Driver]

Maybe his rounds had a stronger charge, so you were anticipating recoil (jerking) more than you were with your weaker loads?

Maybe, didn't think of that. The only thing I wish we would have done was have him shoot the XD with the reloads. He is a WAY better shot than me with his Marine Corps training.

[Warhawk014]

i often find that if i shoot 124 grain out of my xd9 i get consistent 2-3 inch groups at 21 feet. but if i went to the heavier 147 grain my shots open up a little to about 5-6 inches at the same distance. also happens when i shoot 118 grain vs. 115 grain. the 115 grains dont shoot too well they open up to about 4-5 inches while the 118 grain stay consistent 2-3 inch groups. so i only buy 118/124 grain for target practice. usually miwall reloads i get from the local gunshow.

[sjm9877]

It sounds like you just had a bad day at the range. There should not be much difference if any between the rounds. Unless his reloads were something very unusual.

[TheExiled]

Maybe his rounds had a stronger charge, so you were anticipating recoil (jerking) more than you were with your weaker loads?

Thats what Im thinking, a friend of mine did the same thing last weekend with my reloads