Gentlemen,

I have been loading 9mm rounds for my SA XD for IDPA matches. I'm using a homecast Lee 126gr LTC bullet, I have weight verified it. I'm using WSP primers and 4.3grs of HP-38, which is a .1gr under Hodgdons reccomended maimum for a 125gr lead bullet. I have shot this bullet for several weeks with no problems, no signs of pressure and decent accuracy. Today, just for giggles I decided to chronograph them. Hodgdon lists the velocity of 4.4grs of HP-38 at 1086 from a 4" barrel. My loads averaged 1196 from my 5" barrel.

I understand load data is just a guide due to uncontollable variables, and I understand that I have a longer barrel. But would that account for this much more velocity? I'm not worried about accelerated wear on the gun, I think it's a strong design and doesn't seem to be battering itself, but I'd like input from others.

Seems like I'm shooting +p ammo, which I think the XD can take an unlimited diet of.

SSB

Your bullet may not match the one they used in their tests. Butlles have more than just weight, they have bearing area. The longer the "nose" the less full diameter section to rub on the barrel AND to take up case volume. the ones with more bearing area force you to seat deeper, which really raises the pressure (and increased velocity is a good indication of increased pressure).

I agree with ribbonstone on this one ! I'd back that off to 4.0 gr and start there. There isn't alot of wiggle room in the 9mm when you stuff the heavier bullets especially cast bullets. I had the same problem with the wife's 380 when I started reloading the cast 105 gr . Had to drop the charge weight!

I am wondering for my own sake, could it be an alloy issue?