Alliant 2400 is a popular, versatile powder known for its consistent performance across a wide range of cartridges. This guide provides comprehensive reloading data for Alliant 2400, focusing on safety, accuracy, and best practices. Always consult your own reloading manuals and conduct thorough research before attempting any reloading. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for safe reloading practices.
Understanding Alliant 2400
Alliant 2400 is a ball powder known for its excellent metering characteristics, making it a favorite among high-volume reloaders. Its versatility extends to various handgun and rifle cartridges, making it a staple in many reloading benches. However, its burn rate is relatively slow, making it unsuitable for certain applications.
Key Characteristics:
- Type: Ball powder
- Burn Rate: Moderate to slow
- Applications: Handgun and rifle cartridges (specific applications detailed below)
- Metering: Excellent
Safety First: Reloading Precautions
Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous. Failure to follow proper procedures can lead to serious injury or death. Always adhere to these safety precautions:
- Consult Multiple Sources: Never rely on a single data source. Cross-reference data from reputable reloading manuals.
- Start Low, Work Up: Begin with the minimum charge listed in your chosen manual and gradually increase in small increments, carefully observing pressure signs.
- Weigh Charges: Never estimate powder charges. Use a precise powder scale to ensure consistent and safe loads.
- Inspect Cases: Check for any damage or inconsistencies in your brass before loading.
- Clean Equipment: Keep your reloading equipment clean and free of debris.
- Wear Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes when handling firearms or reloading equipment.
- Proper Ventilation: Reload in a well-ventilated area to avoid exposure to powder fumes.
Alliant 2400 Reloading Data: Handgun Cartridges
The following data is a sample and should not be considered exhaustive. Always refer to your specific reloading manual for the most up-to-date and accurate data. These are just examples and may not cover all calibers and bullet weights you may be using.
(Data shown is for illustrative purposes only and should not be used. Always consult your reloading manual.)
| Cartridge | Bullet Weight (grains) | Powder Charge (grains) | Primer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .38 Special | 158 gr LSWC | (Consult Manual) | Small Pistol | |
| .357 Magnum | 158 gr JHP | (Consult Manual) | Small Pistol | |
| 9mm Luger | 124 gr FMJ | (Consult Manual) | Small Pistol | |
| .40 S&W | 180 gr FMJ | (Consult Manual) | Small Pistol | |
| .45 ACP | 230 gr FMJ | (Consult Manual) | Large Pistol |
Alliant 2400 Reloading Data: Rifle Cartridges
Similar to handgun data, the rifle data below is for illustrative purposes and should not be used without referencing your specific reloading manual.
(Data shown is for illustrative purposes only and should not be used. Always consult your reloading manual.)
| Cartridge | Bullet Weight (grains) | Powder Charge (grains) | Primer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .30-30 Winchester | 150 gr SP | (Consult Manual) | Large Rifle | |
| .308 Winchester | 150 gr FMJ | (Consult Manual) | Large Rifle | |
| .30-06 Springfield | 150 gr SP | (Consult Manual) | Large Rifle |
Interpreting Reloading Data
Understanding the data in reloading manuals is crucial for safe reloading. Pay close attention to:
- Bullet Weight: The weight of the projectile in grains.
- Powder Charge: The amount of powder in grains.
- Primer Type: The type of primer required (small pistol, large pistol, small rifle, large rifle).
- Pressure: Look for pressure indications such as PSI (pounds per square inch) or CUP (copper units of pressure). Exceeding maximum pressure can lead to dangerous overpressure conditions.
- Velocity: The speed of the bullet in feet per second (fps).
Conclusion
Alliant 2400 is a versatile powder, but safe reloading requires careful attention to detail and adherence to established procedures. Always consult reputable reloading manuals and prioritize safety above all else. This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute reloading advice. Proceed with caution and always double-check your work.
