I go through as many manuals as available and note the common "most accurate load" listed. If two or three manuals list the same powder that is a good one to start with. I also look for top velocity and close to a 100% fill level. If this also has lower pressure then it is a good choice. I will also pick the temperature tolerant powders first. Then I consider things like good metering, clean burning and availability. A good place to start is with JBs "Loads that work" old and new and "Pet Loads" by Ken Waters. Each of these writers have extensive experience and will up any ones learning curve on reloading.
Pretty close to what I do. Problem with some of the older material, like Ken Waters’ Pet Loads, we have a lot more powders and bullets now than he had. JB’s stuff is current.
I spend time here on the Fire, some on other sites, try to find what’s working for others. Then load some and see how they perform.
That’s worked pretty well for me, saves a lot of trial and error work.
DF
