Hi, I've recently purchased a Ruger LCP and I'm getting ready to start reloading the little 380 rounds. I have dies in the mail and they should be getting here soon. I'm looking to purchase bullets and intend to stick to light weight FMJ rounds to start with. I see both 9mm and 380 in the 95 grain slugs. Is there really a difference between the two?? They seem the same. I have some 9mm 95 grain, can I use them to reload 380s.

Loading the .380 auto can be problematic. Both the Luger and the .380 at .355 but bullets designed for the Luger at typically longer. Stay with the 90 grain rounds designed for the .380. Two things you will have to be careful of is keeping the cases trimmed to the proper length and making sure that you have a good taper crimp to prevent feeding problems. I like Lee factory crimp dies because they produce reloads that work every time. If you use a conventional die design then keep um trimmed and put a consistant good taper crimp on them.

If you don't have a micrometer get one. There are some bullets out there, often in bulk lots,that look just like your .355 FMJ but are not. The Markarov 9x18 is .364 diameter and that will ruin your day.

Also be alert when loading to ensure that you do not overcharge the round. There is very little "wiggle room" between starting and max loads in this caliber.

Thanks mtmrolla,
I have the Lee factory crimp, and a case trimmer coming with the dies. I've also picked up a mircrometer, so I think I have what I need. I did purchased a small box of 95 grain Speers fmj to start with. I hope they won't be a problem.