Ruger PC4 40 Carbine Test Load Velocities

[agentadam]

I bought one of the older discontinued PC40 carbines a year ago because they where easier to find and slightly cheaper than the 9mm version and also the while I'm not a big fan of the .40 cal in a pistol it really does shine in a rifle length barrel because it holds more powder than the 9mm and can push heavier bullets faster. My research showed Long Shot powder to offer that best velocities in .40sw almost rivaling some 10mm loads.

I loaded a few Nosler 135gr HP with 12grains of Longshot which used to be a max load in some older manuals. I would try 11.5gr for starters. The brass showed no signs of wear.
1940
1916
1942

Some factory 155gr load. I believe Hornady XTP.
1336
1348

https://i.imgur.com/TTPpu7L.jpg[img]

WWB 180gr
1148
1162

[img]https://i.imgur.com/66bAHQF.jpg

I plan to work up a hot 155gr XTP for hunting and possibly a heavy 200gr LFN also.

 

[mpalm]

Ruger only built approx 15,000 of the Pc4 carbines. I have one myself and it is my favorite 40. enjoy! they are fun

 

[mikein]

Good work; thanks for sharing your test information with us.