New CZ 75B Reloading for 40 S&W

[McLernon]

I have heard warnings about reloading for this caliber. Some semi's don't have sufficient chamber support at the back end of the cartridge and bulged or burst cases have been experienced. Also with Remmy cases(thinner than most) set back due to loading action can cause set back which in turn leads to VERY high pressures and burst guns. Any experience or counter measures you take in reloading this cal. would be appreciated.

Thanks

Mc

[kappy]

A lot of guys at my range shoot 40's and almost all of them reload (ammo is scarce here).

I'm new to reloading, but I've reloaded a couple hundred rounds (by hand) and haven't had any trouble. Some of my rounds bark a bit loudly, but I haven't blown a gun up. Just start at the low end and if it cycles and ejects properly, you're good. If not, move up bit by bit.

My experience is that a lot of manuals don't have load data for 40, so I'd recommend one from Gun Guides.

[twoguns]

Howdy sir,

While it is true there is the potential issue of bullet setback with the .40S&W, many folks seem to ignore the fact that same potential exists with just about any caliber being loaded.

You did not really mention the type of projectile you are going to load, so I do not know if what you will use has a crimping groove or not.  One suggestion I can offer is the use of the LEE factory crimp die.  I use that brand of crimp die for every caliber I reload now. 

I used my first LEE factory crimp die when I started loading 357 Sig rounds.  I was so impressed with it, I quickly began to use it for all of my calibers.  One of its advantages is its ability to create a "crimp groove" even in projectiles that do not have one.  With a nice firm crimp, you can do a lot to avoid potential bullet setback issues.

Hope this helps a bit anyway sir.

twoguns

[bang bang]

I have heard warnings about reloading for this caliber. Some semi's don't have sufficient chamber support at the back end of the cartridge and bulged or burst cases have been experienced.
yes.  Glocks are known for this.  Even a 1911 has some unsupported chamber/case.  A loose chamber will also cause this.

 Also with Remmy cases(thinner than most) set back due to loading action can cause set back which in turn leads to VERY high pressures and burst guns.
Case thickness will vary with mfg and even batch.  If you use range brass, you will probably see it.  the best way to minimize (but not eliminate) is to sort by headstamp.  Even then wall thickness will vary especially if some cases have been shot more.

side note.  a friend had a NIB Glock in 40 go KB with "reloads".  he bought the "reloads" where he bought the gun, at a store.  The "reloads" were made by the stores' owner friend.  The brass was virgin too. I dissection 10 of the rounds for his suit against the store owner.  he gave me the rest of the ammo since he didnt want the glock or anything to do with them after that. 

Any experience or counter measures you take in reloading this cal. would be appreciated.

depending on the gun you are going to shoot the 40 in, it could still go KB.  I personally belive its a Glock/chamber issue since i havent seen/herd about others in 40 going KB. 

> you can sort you cases by headstamp or keep lots separtate if you buy them virgin.
> carefully inspect all of the cases especially if you pick them up from a range and they have been shoot from unknown weapons.
>  "when in doubt, throw it out" if you find/handle questionable brass.


Thanks

Mc

[Amistad]

10-4 on the merits and value of the Lee Factory Crimp die, as twoguns aptly pointed out.  I recently purchased a CZ 75B (.40) and since I've been reloading a good while for the other calibers of pistols that I have, I saw no reason not to get some .40 dies and load for it as well.  It has been a pleasant experience to work up a couple of .40 loads that generate minimum recoil, while at the same time are very accurate.

It's strange how we sometimes change our minds.  It hasn't been all that long ago that I was not all that enamored with the .40, but all the .40's I had previously shot were of the polymer-framed variety.  My feelings toward the .40 changed considerably after I fired a friend's CZ in .40.  That steel frame makes a world of difference.  Actually, I think .40 is now my favorite caliber to shoot...  

Amistad

[Wobbly]

I have the same "bulging brass" issue in 9mm due to people shooting "9 major" where I pick up a lot of my brass. A good cartridge gauge will go a long way in detecting cases that are bulged out at the rim.