Winchester White Box Want-a-be

[Sieger]

Originally Posted by Neil Young

Come on Guys--I'm just asking for the load data, not the cartridges themselves. Thanks.

Hi:

Please search my name and find about four or so major threads on proper loads for the 4 inch barrel Lugers. These are not only highly functional loads , but one holers.

For me, with round nose bullets, 1.173 inches is the magic over all length that will make the pistol function. This, by the way, was the original length of the DWM ammo.

With medium slow powders, like Power Pistol and SR 4756, you will have good load density. Try to keep your finished rounds at or near 1,076 FPS (less than 1,100 fps) as, again, this was the speed of the late WWI "improved" DWM pistol ammo

Good shooting!!!

Sieger

[sheepherder]

Originally Posted by Sieger

For me, with round nose bullets, 1.173 inches is the magic over all length that will make the pistol function. This, by the way, was the original length of the DWM ammo.

Sieger -

1.169" is what I've always used; Speer recommended. Pretty close.

Do you happen to know if the 7.65 Luger round was the same length = 1.173"???

[Sieger]

Originally Posted by postino

Sieger -

1.169" is what I've always used; Speer recommended. Pretty close.

Do you happen to know if the 7.65 Luger round was the same length = 1.173"???

Hi:

The original DWM 7.65mm ammo, with round nose bullet, was loaded to 1.173 inches. The original DWM 9mm truncated cone ammo was loaded to 1.14 inches.

By American standards, this seems a bit long, but the Germans typically load out longer than we do.

Also, please search my name for a thread on how to determine proper OAL for the exact bullet you will be handloading in your Luger. This process takes away all of the guessing and assures proper function.

The modern 9mm ammo we see being sold commercially today is a far cry from the original "formula" designed to properly function a vintage Luger. Most of it is too hot and too short. Here are some specs. 9mm NATO ammo is loaded with 121 gr. bullet at 1,260 fps vs 9mm DWM Parabellum ammo loaded with a 123 gr bullet at 1,076 fps (a 17% overload).

Sieger