First .40 S&W loads using Clays

[jglabe]

So I decide to try a batch of .40 S&W using clays. I loaded up 5 rounds each of 3.0 gr, 3.2 gr, and 3.4 gr using a 180 rainier plated FN. All cycled fine through my pistol, no signs of overpressure. I found that the 3.4 gr of clays was the most accurate. The thing that amazed me was the recoil. It felt like I was shooting a 22lr. I started laughing after my first shot of the group. All in all I was very pleased. I have to admit I was a little cautious at trying this out due to all of the warnings you hear about using Clays in .40 S&W. But, I am glad I did it. Now to load more so I can go shooting again this weekend. Wish it just metered better. I had to weigh each charge as my powder measure was all over the place with that little of a charge.

[rsrocket1]

The only real danger with Clays comes (like Titegroup) when people try to make major power factor or 1000 fps out of it. As you gradually increase charge, Clays will correspondingly increase pressure and velocity until it blows up your gun. There is no need to get any more velocity out of this powder than what is needed to reliably cycle the action and lock the slide on the last round. If you want more velocity, just use a slower powder like Unique/Universal.

3.0g Clays under a 180g 40 S&W bullet feels just like a 9mm 120g bullet @ 1100 fps so if you don't have one and want to experience what a 9mm feels like, this is the load. Clays does everything that Trail Boss does (except fill up the case) at about 1/2 the price.

I get very consistent charges with Clays in my LnL AP powder measure, but YMMV.

Glad you've found enjoyment with this powder.

[jglabe]

"I get very consistent charges with Clays in my LnL AP powder measure, but YMMV."

Well I am using a cheapy Lee perfect powder measure. Works fine for all of my other powders. Just not that small of a charge of Clays. I have been using Clays for about 20 years loading for my shotguns, and it meters very nicely in my MEC. I thought I would get similar results. Oh well..... I was looking for an excuse to get a better powder thrower anyway.

[rsrocket1]

Are you using the "tap-tap", drop, "tap" technique?
If you do that, the powder drops tend to be fairly consistent. I have a Lee PPM and it does tend to drop consistently too. I do have to adjust the tension on the drum when switching from a big flake powder such as Unique to a small ball powder like H335, but the drops are very consistent.

You might simply switch over to a dipper. You can make a home made dipper with a shaved down case and a soldered/welded brass rod or coat hanger.

[oddjob]

I placed a foot long 1 1/2" pvc pipe with a cap inside my Dillon powder measure. The weight of the pvc pipe seems to give my Dillon powder measure a more consistent drop. I use Clays to make major in my .40 so I'm concerned about a consistent powder drop. I also polished the powder bar and container. I use the pvc pipe with cap intending to place weight in it (bullets) if I needed additional weight. Thus far it hasn't been necessary. The weight of the pvc alone is enough. Cheap solution too.

[jglabe]

Are you using the "tap-tap", drop, "tap" technique?
If you do that, the powder drops tend to be fairly consistent. I have a Lee PPM and it does tend to drop consistently too. I do have to adjust the tension on the drum when switching from a big flake powder such as Unique to a small ball powder like H335, but the drops are very consistent.

You might simply switch over to a dipper. You can make a home made dipper with a shaved down case and a soldered/welded brass rod or coat hanger.

AH.... I think I need to adjust the tension on the drum. It throws ball powder really well. Just not the big flake powders. Any tips on adjusting it?