Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 Issue Number 274 Today
A recurring column in Handloader is "The Load" by C.E. Harris. Issue #274 featured an update to the famous "universal" reduced rifle loads. Using 12-13 grains of Red Dot in large rifle cases (like the .30-06 or 8mm Mauser) was revisited. This was critical for plinkers and trainers.
Perhaps the most technically significant piece in Number 274 was a metallurgical study on belted magnum headspace. For decades, reloaders were taught to resize belted cases (like the 7mm Rem Mag or .300 Win Mag) back to SAAMI minimum specs. This article argued the opposite.
For specific content from Issue Number 274, I recommend:
The Ghost in the Press (Issue #274)
The October 2011 issue of Handloader arrived in Gerald “Griz” Hickock’s mailbox with a dull thud. At 73, Griz had been reloading since the Johnson administration. He didn’t read the articles for the ballistics charts anymore; he read them for the obituaries.
This issue, Number 274, felt different. The cover story was typical fare: “Heavy .45-70 Loads for Modern Lever Guns” by Bob Milek. But the letter from the editor, a man named Sam who’d taken over after the legendary Dave Wolfe retired, gave Griz pause.
“In this issue,” Sam wrote, “we pay tribute to the forgotten calibers—the .32-20, the .218 Bee, and the .25-20 Single Shot. But more importantly, we are printing a series of load notes found in a reloading shed in Miles City, Montana, belonging to the late Arthur ‘Pinky’ Driscoll. Pinky was a benchrest shooter in the 60s and a hermit thereafter. His notes contain a recipe for the .22-250 that claims ‘three shots in one hole at 400 yards.’ We haven’t verified it. We’ll let you decide.”
Griz dropped his coffee spoon. He knew Pinky Driscoll. In 1968, at the Camp Perry Nationals, Pinky had shot a perfect 100-10x in the varmint match with a wildcat cartridge he refused to name. Men had offered him new pickup trucks for the load data. Pinky just grinned, tapped the side of his nose, and said, “It’s not the powder, boys. It’s the prayer you say while seating the bullet.”
Turning to page 42, Griz found the notes. They were handwritten in faded blue ink, full of cross-outs and odd symbols. The powder wasn’t IMR 4895 or H380. It was a blend: 31.5 grains of old DuPont IMR 4064, but only after it had been “sun-dried on a tin sheet for two August afternoons.” The primer was a Remington 9½, but with the anvil “tapped 1/8-turn counter-clockwise.” The brass had to be once-fired Winchester, and the bullets—82-grain custom swaged soft points “lubricated with melted beeswax and a single drop of bear oil.”
“Nonsense,” Griz muttered. But his hands were already reaching for the old Rockchucker press.
He followed the instructions to the letter, feeling foolish as he warmed the powder on a baking sheet in the late September sun. The bear oil was impossible, so he used a drop of his own gun oil. He seated each bullet with the press handle pulled so slowly he could feel the individual granules of powder settling.
The next morning, he drove to his private range. He set up a target at 400 yards—a white paper plate with a red dot. He chambered the first round in his pre-’64 Model 70. The bolt felt tighter than usual.
He breathed out. Squeezed.
The rifle didn’t crack. It screamed—a high, silver note he’d never heard before. The recoil was a polite shove. Through the spotting scope, the paper plate looked untouched. Annoyed, he drove the truck downrange.
There was one hole. One ragged, perfectly round hole exactly on the red dot. He walked back, fired the second shot. Again, the silver note. Again, one hole. The third shot melded into the same aperture, the paper barely tearing.
Three shots. One hole. Four hundred yards.
Griz drove home, hands shaking, and wrote a letter to Handloader. “Cancel my subscription,” he scrawled. “I’ve read the last issue I’ll ever need. Issue #274. Tell Pinky’s ghost the prayer works.”
He never reloaded that recipe again. But he kept the issue on his nightstand until the day he died, the pages of the Driscoll article stained with bear oil and something that might have been hope.
In the next issue, the editor ran a small correction: “Several readers reported unusual chronograph results with the Pinky Driscoll .22-250 load. After internal review, we cannot replicate the data. We suspect a misprint in the powder charge. Do not attempt.”
But a few old-timers, like Griz, knew the truth. Some numbers aren’t for replicating. They’re for believing.
The Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 Issue Number 274: A Comprehensive Review
For firearms enthusiasts and reloaders, the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal is a treasured resource that provides expert guidance, techniques, and insights into the world of ammunition reloading. The October 2011 issue, number 274, is a standout edition that offers a wealth of information, articles, and tutorials that cater to both novice and experienced handloaders. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at the contents of this issue, highlighting the key features, articles, and takeaways that make it an essential read for anyone interested in handloading and ammunition reloading.
Overview of the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal
The Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal is a monthly publication that has been a staple in the firearms community for decades. With a focus on reloading and handloading, the journal provides expert advice, techniques, and product reviews that help readers improve their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. Each issue is packed with articles, tutorials, and features that cover a wide range of topics, from basic reloading techniques to advanced load development and accuracy optimization.
The October 2011 Issue, Number 274
The October 2011 issue of the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal, number 274, is a prime example of the journal's commitment to providing high-quality content to its readers. This issue features a mix of articles, tutorials, and product reviews that cater to different skill levels and interests.
Featured Articles
One of the standout articles in this issue is "Accuracy Secrets of the Masters," which explores the techniques and strategies used by top shooters and reloaders to achieve exceptional accuracy with their handloads. The article features insights from renowned experts in the field, who share their experiences and tips on how to optimize load development, bullet selection, and rifle setup for maximum accuracy. A recurring column in Handloader is "The Load" by C
Another notable article is "Reloading for the .30-06 Springfield," which provides a comprehensive guide to reloading for this popular caliber. The article covers the basics of reloading for the .30-06, including primer selection, powder choices, and bullet options, as well as more advanced topics such as load development and accuracy optimization.
Tutorials and Techniques
In addition to the feature articles, the October 2011 issue of the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal includes several tutorials and technique pieces that provide step-by-step guidance on various aspects of reloading. One example is the article "How to Make Your Own Reloading Dies," which walks readers through the process of creating custom reloading dies for their specific caliber and application.
Another tutorial, "The Art of Bullet Casting," provides an introduction to the basics of bullet casting, including equipment selection, alloy preparation, and casting techniques. This article is perfect for novice reloaders who are looking to expand their skills and explore the world of cast bullets.
Product Reviews
The October 2011 issue of the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal also includes several product reviews that help readers stay informed about the latest developments in reloading equipment and supplies. One review that stands out is the evaluation of the new "X-Treme Bullet Seater" die set, which promises to deliver improved accuracy and ease of use for reloaders.
Conclusion
The Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 issue, number 274, is a valuable resource for anyone interested in handloading and ammunition reloading. With its mix of expert articles, tutorials, and product reviews, this issue provides something for everyone, from novice reloaders to experienced handloaders. Whether you're looking to improve your skills, expand your knowledge, or simply stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field, this issue of the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal is an essential read.
Key Takeaways
Some of the key takeaways from this issue include:
Who Should Read This Issue?
The Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 issue, number 274, is a must-read for:
Where to Find This Issue
The Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 issue, number 274, can be found online or in print through various sources, including:
In conclusion, the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 issue, number 274, is a valuable resource that offers a wealth of information, techniques, and insights into the world of handloading and ammunition reloading. Whether you're a novice reloader or an experienced handloader, this issue is a must-read that will help you improve your skills, expand your knowledge, and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.
For enthusiasts of precision shooting and ballistics, the Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 (Issue Number 274) remains a foundational reference. Published by Wolfe Publishing, this specific issue arrived during a period of significant transition in propellant technology and bullet design, offering a snapshot of the industry's evolution through the eyes of legendary experts. Key Articles and Technical Highlights
The October 2011 issue is characterized by its deep dives into both historical oddities and modern performance optimization.
Magnum Revolver Loads with Alliant Power Pro 300-MP: Brian Pearce, writing in his "From the Hip" column, provided critical data on the then-new 300-MP powder, exploring its capabilities in high-pressure handgun cartridges.
Working Up a Load in the 21st Century: John Barsness tackled the modern methodology of load development, emphasizing that bullet seating depth and velocity are more critical than traditional "one-size-fits-all" advice.
Sharps Cartridges: Mike Venturino explored the complexities of the 15 different Sharps cartridge options, providing a definitive guide for black powder cartridge rifle (BPCR) shooters.
The Short, Unhappy Life of the 9mm Federal: Gil Sengel’s "Cartridge Board" provided a historical autopsy of this rimmed 9mm variant, explaining why it failed to gain traction despite its technical merits. Propellant and Component Profiles
Issue 274 is particularly valued for its "Propellant Profiles," which in this edition focused on Ramshot’s Zip. R.H. VanDenburg, Jr. detailed the powder’s versatility in handgun calibers, noting its clean-burning characteristics—a major topic of discussion in the early 2010s.
Additionally, Charles E. Petty addressed the emerging trend of "green" primers in his "Pistol Pointers" column, discussing the lead-free initiatives that were beginning to impact range requirements and component availability. Practical Tips and Gear Reviews
Beyond the technical data, the journal served as a guide for the daily operations of the reloading bench:
Managing Recoil: John Haviland offered advice on "getting in touch with your softer side," focusing on how handloaders can tailor loads to reduce physical strain without sacrificing terminal performance.
New Gear: Stan Trzoniec reviewed "Neat Tools for the Handloader," highlighting the top equipment releases of 2011 that helped automate and refine the reloading process.
Book Reviews: The issue featured a review of the Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook, 4th Edition, by Rocky Raab, which at the time was the definitive new guide for lead bullet enthusiasts. Legacy and Availability For specific content from Issue Number 274, I recommend:
While over a decade old, the load data and technical insights in Issue 274 continue to be cited in reloading forums for their reliability. You can still find back issues or digital archives of this specific volume directly from Wolfe Publishing’s official store or through major reloading resource aggregators like the Handloader Magazine website. Digicelhttps://shop.digicelgroup.com
Handloader Issue Number 274 (October 2011) features a heavy focus on high-performance handgun loads, modern propellant profiles, and precision loading techniques for the 21st century. Feature Articles & Highlights
Great Handgun Loads: Brian Pearce explores the development of high-performance ammunition for handguns.
Working Up a Load in the 21st Century: John Barsness discusses how bullet seating depth and velocity are the primary keys to modern load development.
Sharps Cartridges: Mike Venturino provides a guide to making sense of 15 different options for these classic cartridges.
Magnum Revolver Loads: Brian Pearce details loading for magnum revolvers using Alliant Power Pro 300-MP.
The 9mm Federal: Gil Sengel reviews the "short, unhappy life" of this specific cartridge in the Cartridge Board column.
Managing Recoil: John Haviland offers advice on "getting in touch with your softer side" through recoil management techniques. Columns & Technical Profiles
Propellant Profiles: R.H. VanDenburg, Jr. profiles Ramshot’s Zip powder.
Reloader’s Bench: Dave Scovill discusses the essentials of primers.
Pistol Pointers: Charles E. Petty asks "How Green is My Primer?"—examining lead-free and environmentally friendly primer options.
New Gear: Stan Trzoniec reviews "Neat Tools for the Handloader" from top industry companies.
Book Review: Rocky Raab reviews the Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook, 4th Edition. Historical & Specialized Loading
Keeping Old Rimfires Burning: Terry Wieland discusses sourcing and using ammunition for vintage rimfire firearms.
Re-Creating History: A technical look at using traditional tools (like files) for firearm and cartridge work by Terry Wieland.
Mike’s Shootin’ Shack: Mike Venturino debates the nuances between being a "Reloader" versus a "Handloader".
This issue is available through the Wolfe Publishing Store or secondary markets like eBay. Handloader 274 October 2011 - Wolfe Publishing
Issue Number 274 of Handloader: The Ammunition Reloading Journal (October 2011) provides in-depth technical coverage on historical Sharps cartridges, modern load development, and handgun ammunition, featuring contributions from experts like Mike Venturino and Brian Pearce. The issue serves as a comprehensive resource, offering specialized load data and equipment reviews designed to improve precision and safety for reloaders. For more details, visit Wolfe Publishing. Handloader 274 October 2011 - Wolfe Publishing
Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 Issue Number 274
Table of Contents
The Art of Reloading: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
As a beginner, getting started with reloading can seem daunting. With so many tools, techniques, and components to consider, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. In this article, we'll take a step-by-step approach to reloading, covering the basics of what you need to get started and how to ensure safe and accurate reloading practices.
Reloading involves creating your own ammunition by assembling the individual components of a cartridge: the case, primer, powder, and bullet. By doing so, shooters can achieve greater accuracy, save money, and develop a deeper understanding of the shooting process.
Essential Reloading Equipment
Before you begin reloading, you'll need to invest in some essential equipment:
Basic Reloading Steps
Once you have your equipment, you're ready to start reloading. Here are the basic steps: The Ghost in the Press (Issue #274) The
Reloading for Accuracy: Tips and Techniques
Achieving accuracy with reloading requires attention to detail and a commitment to consistency. Here are some tips and techniques to help you achieve accurate reloads:
The Benefits of Handloading: Why Reload Your Own Ammunition?
Handloading offers several benefits, including:
New Loading Data for Popular Cartridges
In this issue, we're pleased to present new loading data for popular cartridges, including the 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Our team of experienced reloaders has worked tirelessly to develop and test these loads, and we're excited to share them with you.
Special Section: Reloading for the .308 Winchester
The .308 Winchester is a popular cartridge for hunting and target shooting. In this special section, we'll take a closer look at reloading for the .308 Winchester, including tips and techniques for achieving accurate and consistent performance.
Gear Review: A Look at the Latest Reloading Tools and Equipment
In this issue, we review the latest reloading tools and equipment, including the new Hornady Lock-N-Load OAL gauge and the Lyman 1200 DPS digital powder scale.
Tech Talk: Troubleshooting Common Reloading Issues
In this issue, we address common reloading issues, including misaligned cases, inconsistent powder charges, and bullets that won't seat properly. Our team of experts provides troubleshooting tips and techniques to help you overcome these common problems.
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Title: Reloading Room Retro: A Look Back at Handloader Issue No. 274 (October 2011)
For the precision shooter and the handloading hobbyist, the arrival of a new journal is a monthly ritual. While the industry moves fast, the fundamentals of ballistics and reloading technique remain timeless. Today, we’re cracking open the archives to look at Handloader Magazine, Issue Number 274, from October 2011.
Twelve years have passed since this issue hit the newsstands, but the knowledge contained within its glossy pages is just as relevant for today’s reloader. Here is a breakdown of what made Issue No. 274 a must-have for the workbench.
The Cover Feature: The .280 Ackley Improved If there was ever a "cult classic" cartridge, the .280 Ackley Improved is it. The October 2011 issue dove deep into this wildcat-turned-standard. Long before Nosler standardized it with SAAMI specs, handloaders were fire-forming brass to get that 40-degree shoulder.
The .17 Remington Fireball In 2011, the varmint hunting scene was buzzing about the .17 Remington Fireball. This issue explored the intricacies of this small, fast round—balancing the need for speed against the delicacy required to handload such small cartridges.
Component Reviews & Equipment A look back at the "Dope Bag" and new product sections offers a fascinating snapshot of the industry at the time.
Why You Should Still Read It The value of Handloader has always been in its rigorous approach to data. While bullet designs have evolved (we have much better high-BC bullets now than we did in 2011), the internal ballistics discussed in Issue 274 remain scientifically sound. Whether you are looking for data on classic cartridges like the .308 Winchester or exploring the nuances of the 6.5x55 Swedish Mauser, this issue likely contains a recipe or a technique you haven’t tried yet.
The Verdict Handloader Issue No. 274 serves as a reminder that good reloading habits don't have an expiration date. If you can find a copy of this issue in a used book store or a reloading buddy’s collection, don't pass it by. It’s a valuable piece of reloading history that still earns its keep on the reloading bench.
Beyond the feature articles, Issue #274 contained the beloved monthly fixtures:
For the practical handloader, the most valuable part of Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 Issue Number 274 was the pull-out data sheet (often a centerfold or back page). This specific issue likely contained a data table for the .338 Federal – a cartridge only 5 years old at the time.
Key loads included:
This data predates the widespread use of quick load simulation software, relying instead on Oehler chronograph averages over a 24" barrel. Many old-timers still trust this "analog" data more than computer models.
In the golden era of print media for firearms enthusiasts, few names carried as much weight as Handloader magazine. For decades, it has served as the technical Bible for the metallic cartridge reloading community. While digital forums and YouTube tutorials now dominate the reloading landscape, the tactile, methodical, and deeply researched content of past issues remains irreplaceable. Among those treasured back-issues is Handloader Ammunition Reloading Journal October 2011 Issue Number 274.
For collectors, data archivists, and serious benchrest shooters, Issue #274 represents a specific snapshot of the industry just before the "Great Ammo Shortage" of 2012-2014. It captures a time when powder was plentiful, primers were cheap, and the debate was not about if you could find components, but about which micrometer adjustment die offered the most precision.
Here is a comprehensive retrospective of what subscribers found in their mailboxes that October, and why this issue still matters to handloaders today.