Red Dot powder, manufactured by Alliant Powder, is a popular choice among reloaders for its versatility and consistent performance across various handgun and shotgun cartridges. This guide provides comprehensive loading data for Red Dot, emphasizing safety and accuracy. Always consult your reloading manual and the manufacturer's data sheets before attempting any reloading. This information is for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for proper training and adherence to safety protocols.
Understanding Red Dot Powder
Red Dot is a spherical, extruded powder known for its clean burning characteristics and relatively low pressure. This makes it suitable for a wide range of cartridges, from small pistol rounds to heavier shotgun loads. However, its versatility also means that precise loading data is crucial to ensure safety and optimal performance. Factors such as bullet weight, case length, and primer type significantly affect the resulting pressure.
Key Characteristics of Red Dot:
- Versatile: Suitable for various handgun and shotgun cartridges.
- Clean Burning: Produces minimal fouling, leading to easier cleaning.
- Consistent: Offers reliable performance with minimal variations.
- Relatively Low Pressure: Generally safer to work with than faster burning powders.
Red Dot Loading Data for Handgun Cartridges
The following table provides sample loading data for common handgun cartridges using Red Dot powder. This is not exhaustive and should not be used as a sole source for reloading data. Always refer to your reloading manual and the most current Alliant Powder data for your specific components and equipment.
| Cartridge | Bullet Weight (grains) | Powder Charge (grains) | Primer | COL (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9mm Luger | 124 | 4.5 - 5.2 | Small Pistol | 1.125 - 1.155 | Start low, work up slowly. |
| .38 Special | 158 | 3.8 - 4.5 | Small Pistol | 1.560 | Use appropriate bullet design. |
| .357 Magnum | 158 | 5.0 - 5.7 | Small Pistol | 1.560 | Higher pressures than .38 Special. Proceed with caution. |
| .40 S&W | 180 | 5.0 - 5.8 | Small Pistol | 1.140 - 1.160 | Start low, work up slowly. |
| .45 ACP | 230 | 4.8 - 5.5 | Large Pistol | 1.260 - 1.270 | Start low, work up slowly. |
Disclaimer: This table provides sample data only. Always consult your reloading manual and Alliant Powder's official data for your specific components.
Red Dot Loading Data for Shotgun Cartridges
Red Dot is also commonly used in shotgun reloading, particularly for light target loads. Again, always refer to your reloading manual and the manufacturer's loading data for accurate and safe loads. The following table represents sample data. Use caution and verify data before loading.
| Gauge | Shot Weight (oz) | Powder Charge (grains) | Wad | Primer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Gauge | 1 1/8 | 17.0 - 18.5 | Appropriate Wad | 209 | Adjust wad based on shot size and hull. |
| 20 Gauge | 7/8 | 13.0 - 14.5 | Appropriate Wad | 209 | Adjust wad based on shot size and hull. |
Disclaimer: This table provides sample data only. Always consult your reloading manual and Alliant Powder's official data for your specific components.
Safety Precautions
Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous. Failure to follow proper safety procedures can result in serious injury or death. Always:
- Consult your reloading manual: This is your primary source of information.
- Use proper equipment: A reliable scale, powder measure, and case trimmer are essential.
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection: This protects against potential accidents and noise.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Powder fumes can be harmful.
- Never exceed maximum recommended charges: Overcharging can lead to catastrophic failures.
- Double-check your work: Verify each step of the reloading process.
- Dispose of spent primers and other waste materials properly.
This guide provides general information on Red Dot powder loading data. Always prioritize safety and consult official sources before starting your reloading process. Remember, responsible reloading practices are paramount.
