SIGforum
WSF or 231 - 9mm- 147gr.

This topic can be found at:
https://sigforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/840601935/m/4100040934

March 14, 2018, 02:07 AM
armored
WSF or 231 - 9mm- 147gr.
I have been using a IDPA load for my 9mm CZ Shadow of 3.8gr of WSF and a 147 Montana gold FMJ bullet. It has worked without problem for years.
I recently decided to change things and bought some Bayou 147 grain plated bullets.
I can continue with the WSF and try a 3.5gr charge or use some 231 that I have.
What would you suggest, on powder choice?
Any load suggestions with 231?
Just looking for a 125+ power factor.
March 14, 2018, 07:16 AM
Erick85
There is a lot of data out there using WSF. I use WST with my 147s. The first powder I bought was hp38 (same as 231), back in 2014 when you couldn’t find primers nor powder. I found some data for that but not nearly as much as WSF, and never actually loaded any with it. Still sitting on an unopened 8lb jug.....

From what I’ve seen, I’d use WSF, but I’d bet someone has much more experience with 231.

BTW, I recently switched from Bayou to Gallant. Very happy. Cheaper and they have a rewards program. My order of just under $200 earned me a $25 reward for my next purchase. Takes it below Bayou as far a cost.
March 14, 2018, 08:22 AM
Blue68f100
I would stick with WSF, it has served you well over the years. WSF is all I use for my 9mm loads.


David

P229R 9mm, Nitron, Beavertail Frame, Night Sights, DA/SA, SRT & Short Reach Trigger
March 15, 2018, 06:19 PM
fredj338
Bayou are NOT plated but coated, slightly diff. You would want to reduce your powder charge 2-3/10 to get the same vel as the jacketed. If they are the smooth sided 145gr, reduce another 1/10gr.
You can certainly use W231/HP38 for 9mm minor. I shoot a bunch of WST under 145-147gr in 9mm minor & W231 is a bit slower than WST. If you want to run W231, start 3.4gr & work it up to maybe 3.7gr for Bayou 145-147gr.


IF YOU AREN'T HANDLOADING, YOU AREN'T SHOOTING ENOUGH!
NRA Instruc: Basic Pistol & Met Reloading
March 15, 2018, 06:20 PM
fredj338
BTW< I do like WSF for full power to +p 9mm loads. For lighter target/9 minor, faster powders will be a bit more efficient & cleaner burning too.


IF YOU AREN'T HANDLOADING, YOU AREN'T SHOOTING ENOUGH!
NRA Instruc: Basic Pistol & Met Reloading
March 15, 2018, 07:24 PM
armored
I do have some titegroup, would this be a good alternative with the heavy bayou 147 and a low power factor?

maybe I should break down a buy some new powder, what would you suggest?
March 17, 2018, 12:56 PM
Kilroy2721
You want a fast burning powder and titegroup is one .
March 20, 2018, 12:06 AM
sns3guppy
I use Bayou (they're less expensive than Gallant); they've proven excellent quality and consistency.

For powder, though I do buy in 4-8 lb jugs, availability isn't always consistent, so I use several powders.

231 meters about as good as anything.
March 20, 2018, 08:02 AM
Erick85
quote:
Originally posted by sns3guppy:
I use Bayou (they're less expensive than Gallant)


For a case of 147 grain 9mm, they are pretty much the same price... $227 for Bayou vs $225 for Gallant. With Gallant rewards points, the first purchase would get around $25 for the next one. I haven’t had any issues in the 2400 rounds I loaded last week. I’ll admit, I was nervous going from a known in Bayou to Gallant, but I couldn’t be happier. I’ll also admit, I was slightly put off by Bayou running a Black Friday sale, but conveniently raising their prices at the same time, thus negating any savings. While it may have been in response to the price of lead, it didn’t look good on their part.
April 20, 2018, 11:17 PM
Riley
I can’t answer your powder question, but I’ve been using CFE Pistol and had good luck.

I’d be interested in your seating depth. I have to seat the coated Summers Enterprise 145’s deeper than plated Berry 147’s for my CZ. I’d like to try the Bayou and see if it’s pointier than the Summers. I need to try a few brands but I may go back to plated.




Do not send me to a heaven where there are no dogs.
Step Up or Stand Aside: Support the Troops !
Expectations are premeditated disappointments.