I actually pay a 'lot' of attention to any load data that is posted. If it sounds good, I'll check against my knowledge base (manuals/articles/binders of info/on-line manuals/my experience with the powder, etc.) and if it is a go, I'll test it for myself . Never had a 'kaboom' either since I started reloading back in the 80s..... YMMV of course, but there are 'knowledgeable' people in this world that can contribute to the collective knowledge base ... rather than re-inventing the wheel over and over and over again.... This isn't 'rocket' science....I pay little attention to any load data...
If a newer reloader has his knowledge base in working order and his BS filter in high gear, then yes, it's OK to check load data on line/forums. "Collective knowledge base" can be fine if the contributors are deemed to only give legitimate, safe data, otherwise it's just a group BSing around. But (and that's a BIG but) anyone can proclaim himself an expert on a forum and post load data, regardless of how many posters are giving legitimate/safe data. I have seen more safe loads than dangerous loads on line but I have 35+ years of experience and a large library for reference and have seen some loads on forums that are questionable at best. If you, with experience and resources, want to use load data from a forum, good, but any newer reloader should be warned. If a newer reloader sees something posted on a forum by an "impressive" screen name with a high post count, he may take that info as gospel and use it without checking a manual or manufacturer's web site. At best a foolish move...Rclark said:I actually pay a 'lot' of attention to any load data that is posted. If it sounds good, I'll check against my knowledge base (manuals/articles/binders of info/on-line manuals/my experience with the powder, etc.) and if it is a go, I'll test it for myself . Never had a 'kaboom' either since I started reloading back in the 80s..... YMMV of course, but there are 'knowledgeable' people in this world that can contribute to the collective knowledge base ... rather than re-inventing the wheel over and over and over again.... This isn't 'rocket' science....I pay little attention to any load data...
Of course ... but if you are new reloader you 'should' be cautious about what you read/use. If your not, then you shouldn't be reloading in the first place... Knowledge/experience is to be shared. It is up to 'every' individual on how he/she uses it. We can't be every ones keeper and try to protect us from ourselves... To me, it's like saying we should remove all guns from every house hold because some-one might mis-use one someday (and someone will/has) .... Then we'll all be safe and happy... Or as the media likes to harp on "it's for the children, if it saves just one life it is worth it...". No, share your knowledge/experience to the best of your ability and don't wring your hands about the 'if this, if thats" in this world .If a newer reloader has his knowledge base in working order and his BS filter in high gear, then yes
So I can post my load load 9.7 gr of Bullseye under a 160 gr SWC for my 2" 38 Special? And I swear it works fine in my '56 S&W snubbie. If a new reloader tries it and loosed a finger or two, then fine, it's his fault...Rclark said:Of course ... but if you are new reloader you 'should' be cautious about what you read/use. If your not, then you shouldn't be reloading in the first place... Knowledge/experience is to be shared. It is up to 'every' individual on how he/she uses it. We can't be every ones keeper and try to protect us from ourselves... To me, it's like saying we should remove all guns from every house hold because some-one might mis-use one someday (and someone will/has) .... Then we'll all be safe and happy... Or as the media likes to harp on "it's for the children, if it saves just one life it is worth it...". No, share your knowledge/experience to the best of your ability and don't wring your hands about the 'if this, if thats" in this world .If a newer reloader has his knowledge base in working order and his BS filter in high gear, then yes