Xtreme Bullets 9mm 124gr Load Data: A Comprehensive Guide

Disclaimer

Reloading ammunition involves inherent risks. Always prioritize safety above all else. Follow published load data precisely, use appropriate safety gear (eye protection, hearing protection, etc.), and work in a well-ventilated area. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered an endorsement of any reloading practices. Improper reloading can lead to serious injury or death. Always consult reputable reloading manuals and resources before attempting to reload any ammunition.

Understanding Xtreme Bullets and the 124-Grain 9mm Projectile

Xtreme Bullets has established itself as a respected name in the reloading community, offering quality projectiles at competitive prices. Their commitment to consistency and reliability has made them a favorite amongst shooters of all levels. When seeking to reload 9mm, one of the most common choices is their 124-grain bullet.

The 9mm Luger, also known as the 9x19mm, is a versatile and widely used cartridge. It is a staple in handguns and pistol-caliber carbines worldwide. This popularity translates into a wide range of bullet weights and designs available to reloaders. The 124-grain bullet is particularly popular, often considered a good balance between trajectory, recoil, and stopping power for various applications, including target shooting, recreational plinking, and even self-defense.

Xtreme Bullets offers their 124-grain bullets in various configurations, including round nose (RN) and hollow point (HP). These are generally plated bullets. Plated bullets are cost-effective and tend to be more forgiving in terms of pressure than jacketed bullets, making them a good choice for reloaders. These projectiles feature a lead core encased in a copper plating, providing adequate accuracy and performance at typical handgun velocities.

Essential Reloading Components: Choosing Wisely

Successfully reloading the 9mm with Xtreme 124-grain bullets requires a careful selection of components. Each component plays a crucial role in the final product’s performance and, most importantly, your safety.

Powder Selection: The Heart of the Load

Choosing the correct powder is perhaps the most important decision. The burn rate of your chosen powder directly affects the pressure curve generated when firing the cartridge, ultimately determining velocity and felt recoil. The following information offers general guidance and should be combined with data from reputable sources. Always start low and work up carefully.

Here are some commonly used and effective powders for reloading the Xtreme 124-grain 9mm bullet, along with general considerations:

Titegroup

A very fast-burning powder known for clean burning. It’s often favored for its efficiency, requiring less powder by weight to achieve a given velocity. Start with the minimum recommended load and work your way up slowly.

HP-38/W231

This is a versatile, fast-burning powder that is extremely popular with reloaders. It’s easy to meter and provides good accuracy and a wide load range with the 124gr bullet.

Power Pistol

Power Pistol is a bit slower than Titegroup or HP-38, providing high velocities, making it ideal for generating the power and performance many target shooters are seeking. It is known for its tendency to produce slightly more muzzle flash. Careful attention to the maximum load is vital.

Unique

A classic flake powder, Unique is a reliable choice that offers versatility. It is a bit slower than the previous options, and can work well for various bullet weights, but it produces more smoke.

BE-86

This powder is similar to HP-38/W231, and many people find it to be very effective when reloading 9mm.

Other Options

Other suitable powders include Silhouette and Long Shot, though the specific loads will need to be confirmed.

*Note: The above powders are just examples, and the powder that will suit you best depends on your shooting style and preferred results. Powder loads may vary based on the manufacturer. *Consult a current reloading manual from reputable sources such as Hornady, Speer, Lyman, or the manufacturer of the bullet you are using* for specific load data. Each manual will provide the range of weights that are safe to use, and it is important not to deviate from these values.*

When selecting a powder, consider your desired velocity, the gun you are using, and the overall characteristics of the powder itself. Faster-burning powders tend to produce lower velocities but generate less felt recoil. Slower-burning powders can deliver higher velocities but may require careful management of pressure. Always consult reliable data sources and prioritize safety.

Primer Selection: The Initial Spark

The primer’s role is crucial; it provides the initial spark to ignite the powder. In the 9mm, small pistol primers are used. There are standard small pistol primers and small pistol magnum primers, each designed for different pressure applications and propellant types. In this scenario, we are using standard small pistol primers.

Common, reliable primers include those manufactured by CCI, Winchester, Federal, and others. Choosing a high-quality primer is just as important as using quality powder. Match the primer to the powder. If using fast burning powder, stick with a standard primer.

Brass Selection and Preparation: The Foundation of a Good Round

The condition of your brass cases significantly impacts the safety and performance of your reloads. Choose cases from reputable manufacturers. Inspect your brass carefully before reloading.

• Cleaning: Clean the brass to remove dirt and debris. Tumblers or ultrasonic cleaners are common methods.
• Inspection: Look for cracks, dents, and other signs of damage. Discard any damaged cases.
• Resizing: Use a resizing die to bring the case back to its original dimensions.
• Priming: Insert the new primer into the primer pocket.
• Case Trimming: This is usually not necessary for 9mm, but check the case length to ensure it is within the specified limits.
• Chamfering and Deburring: Remove any burrs from the case mouth for smooth bullet seating.

Load Data and Development: Building Your Ammunition

This is the most critical part of the process; building the final ammunition requires a deep understanding of each component and its effect on your rounds.

Load Data Table (Always Verified by a Reputable Source)

This information is presented to demonstrate how this data is set-up, and where you can find it.

*Remember: All data is sourced from reliable reloading manuals and is provided as a general guide. Always consult your preferred manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information.*

*OAL (Overall Length) is critical and must be adhered to.*

Load Development Steps: A Methodical Approach

Start low and proceed cautiously: Always begin with the minimum recommended powder charge listed in your source. Never assume that a load that worked for one person or firearm will work for another.

Incremental Increases: Gradually increase the powder charge in small increments (0.1 or 0.2 grains).

Observe and Inspect: After each increase, shoot a small number of rounds (3-5) and carefully examine the fired cases and your firearm for any signs of excessive pressure, such as:

• Flattened primers: Primers that are flattened or show a significant change in the radius of the edges.
• Cratered primers: Primers with a sharp, distinct firing pin impression.
• Difficult extraction: If you have trouble extracting spent cases.
• Bulged cases: If the brass begins to bulge in the area of the case head.

Velocity Testing (Optional, but Recommended): Use a chronograph to measure the velocity of your loads. This can help you understand how your loads perform and identify any pressure issues. Compare the observed velocities with the published data.

Accuracy Testing: Evaluate accuracy by shooting groups at a set distance. Identify the load that offers the tightest groups while staying within safe pressure limits.

OAL Considerations: The OAL (Overall Length) is the total length of the loaded cartridge. It’s crucial for proper chambering and safe performance. Follow the OAL recommended by your reloading manual for the specific bullet and powder combination. Deviating from the recommended OAL can significantly affect pressure. The bullet seating depth influences pressure; seating a bullet too deeply can increase pressure, while seating it too short can cause problems.

The Reloading Process and Necessary Equipment

The steps below show the process you will use to create your ammunition; remember to be as accurate as possible.

• Case Preparation: Brass cases are cleaned, inspected, sized, and primed.
• Powder Charging: The correct charge of powder is dispensed into the case. The powder weight is verified with a scale.
• Bullet Seating: The bullet is seated to the correct depth and OAL.
• Crimp: The case mouth is crimped to hold the bullet securely.
• Inspection: Each loaded round is inspected for visual defects.

Essential equipment needed:

• Reloading press
• Dies
• Powder scale
• Powder dispenser
• Calipers
• Priming tool
• Case cleaner
• Safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection

Safety First: A Must for All Reloaders

Safety must be the cornerstone of every reloading session. Following best practices is crucial to staying safe.

Always:

• Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Double-check powder charges.
• Keep all components separate and properly labeled.
• Never mix powders.
• Store powder and primers securely.
• Read your manuals.

Never:

• Never exceed the maximum powder charges listed in your source.
• Never try to force a cartridge to chamber.
• Never reload ammunition if you are tired, distracted, or under the influence of anything that may impair your judgment.

Dealing with Problems: When Things Go Wrong

Reloading is rarely perfect, but most issues are manageable if you understand the principles involved.

Squib Loads: If a bullet gets stuck in the barrel (a squib load), immediately stop shooting. Do not fire another round until you have removed the obstruction.

Stuck Cases: Lubricate the case before resizing, and consult your equipment manual to resolve a stuck case.

Conclusion: Reloading for Fun

Reloading Xtreme Bullets 124gr 9mm loads can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby. By focusing on safety, using reliable data, and working carefully, you can tailor your ammunition to your exact needs. Remember to always start with proven data, and don’t take short cuts. Enjoy!

Sources and References

Hornady Reloading Handbook

Lyman Reloading Handbook

Speer Reloading Manual

Powder Manufacturers Websites (e.g., Hodgdon, Alliant)

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