Reloading data refers to that of ammunition. It clearly states what type of powder can be used with what type of shells, and then what type of firearm can handle said ammo. Hodgdon is a company that provides black powder and other reload-related products. On their website is an interactive form where information such as load type and cartridge, or in the case of shotshells, gauge, load type, shot
. weight, and shell can be entered. The website then calculates the correct reload data for that particular type of ammo. However, many warnings and limitations are also displayed on the site: The most important warning is to NEVER exceed maximum load. As expected this could result in severe injury, or even in the worst cases, fatality. It is stressed never to mix any two types of powder regardless of type, brand, or source. Smokeless powder should never be substituted for black powder, any black powder substitute, or vice versa. As mentioned before, failure to use safe loading practices could result in injury, death, or property damage. Use only the components shown for all brands of powders. For those loads listed where a starting load is not shown, start 10% below the suggested maximum load and then approach maximums carefully, watching for any sign of pressure. H110 and Winchester 296 loads should be reduced 3% and worked up from there. In addition, H110 loads should not be reduced more than 3%. 40 S&W data is only intended for use in firearms with barrels that fully support the cartridge in the chamber. Misuse of this data could again result in injury or death. Data for 45 Colt Ruger Blackhawk, Freedom Arms, and Thompson Center Contender/Encore Handguns should solely be used for those firearms. .45-.70 Government data are intended for Springfield "Trapdoor", Rolling Block, and Antique Replicas ONLY. 45-70 Government (Lever Actions) data are intended for the 1895 lever action Marlin only and NOT the "trapdoor" ones. 45-70 Government (Modern Rifles) data are intended for only Ruger No.1 and No.3 single shots, Browning 1885 single shots and Siamese bolt action rifles. Consult the website for more detailed reload warnings and information. More Reference Links: http://data.hodgdon.com/main_menu.asp www.chuckhawks.com/hodgdon_rdc.htm
