I am just starting to learn about reloading and have a very simple question that will quickly expose my ignorance. I am reading the "recipe" publications and don't understand what some of the numbers stand for. For example, I understand that I must find the hull type, shot size, powder, primer, and wad that I will be using. Then it gives me a couple of fps options. I am assuming this is feet per second. However, I don't understand the next set of numbers under these categories (i.e. 16.0gr/10,800 psi). I believe I use the 16.0 gr to look at the bushing chart and select the bushing that is closest to this number. Is this correct and how do I know if I am discharging enough powder. I have a powder scale and based on the recipe I measured 1.03 grams. I can't see that this matches anything. How do I check this? I apologize for my rookie status and would greatly appreciate any information.

Aggie,
hope I can help...
You are correct - the 16.0Gr / 10,800 psi info refers to 16 grains (by weight) of powder to produce a load developing 10,800 PSI (pressure).

So if that's the load you want - yes - find the bushing that gives you the closest amount of powder. Weigh the powder thrown on a powder scale. It may come out to 15.8gn for example.

Don't worry about your "rookie" status - we are all learning here.

Powder weight is given in grains, not grams. 1 gram = 15.4324 grains. The bushing charts will get you close, but can be off by one or two bushing sizes for several reasons. Operator technique for one. Are you slow and steady, or fast on the handle? Different powder lots. The older Hercules powders weren't as dense as current Alliant powders, and you need about one size smaller bushing with some Alliant powders. MEC has a particular problem with their charts, because their bushings are used in both single stage and progressive loaders. The powder settles into the bushing more during the 5 strokes on a single stage than the 1 stroke per powder drop on a progressive. It takes about 5 powder drops for the charge to stabilize when you start up if you're using flake powders. I like to weigh the first five drops, then the last one in every box after that. IMR 800-X has a large flake and doesn't meter well. Don't use a powder baffle with it. Some folks say just don't use 800-X. Some 20 gauge Winchester AA shells have a strip of plastic in the primer pocket and take a lot of force to deprime. This jars the loader and you get a heavy powder drop. It's best if you deprime the lot in a separate operation, then run them through the rest of the stage.

Bye
Jack