Hodgdon Longshot Powder Recipes: Share Your Best Loads!

Ammunition & Reloading
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Overview of Hodgdon Longshot Powder

Hodgdon Longshot is a versatile spherical powder that works great for a variety of handgun cartridges. Its consistency and performance make it a favorite among handloaders, especially for those who are looking to optimize their loads to achieve the best results.

Benefits of Using Longshot

  • Versatility: Works well with multiple calibers.
  • Performance: Produces consistent velocities and reliable ignition.
  • Temperature Stability: Maintains performance across a range of temperatures.

Basic Load Data

Here are some recommended loads for popular calibers using Hodgdon Longshot powder:

9mm Luger

  • Bullet Type: 124 Grain FMJ
  • Starting Load: 4.5 Grains
  • Max Load: 5.3 Grains
  • COAL (OAL): 1.135 Inches

.40 S&W

  • Bullet Type: 165 Grain FMJ
  • Starting Load: 5.8 Grains
  • Max Load: 6.8 Grains
  • COAL (OAL): 1.135 Inches

.45 ACP

  • Bullet Type: 230 Grain FMJ
  • Starting Load: 5.3 Grains
  • Max Load: 6.3 Grains
  • COAL (OAL): 1.200 Inches

Tips for Reloading with Longshot

  • Always start with the minimum load and work your way up.
  • Use a reliable scale to measure powder accurately.
  • Test batches of loads before settling on a favorite for consistency.

Join the Discussion

What are your go-to recipes with Hodgdon Longshot? Have you found specific bullet and powder combinations that yield impressive results? Share your experiences and tips below! Let’s help each other improve our handloading skills!

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Hodgdon Longshot powder is known for its versatile properties. It’s ideal for pistol loads and some shotgun applications, providing a consistent burn rate that many reloaders appreciate.

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Absolutely! I love how consistent it burns. It’s great for achieving high velocity without excessive pressure, perfect for 9mm and .40 S&W.

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In my experience, Longshot has a higher burn rate compared to some other powders, like Unique. It tends to work better in larger cases due to its energy efficiency.

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That’s a great point! Its efficiency really shows in 12 gauge shotgun loads, too. I find it gives good patterns.

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I’ve had mixed results with Longshot. While it’s good for some loads, I sometimes feel it’s not as forgiving in small charges compared to others. Just my two cents!

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I understand that concern. I think it just takes some practice to refine your loads with it, but the results are worth it!

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A notable comparison is between Hodgdon Longshot and Alliant Power Pistol. Longshot has less temperature sensitivity, which I find beneficial when reloading in variable weather conditions.

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Great insight! I’ve also noticed that Longshot maintains stable performance across a broader temperature range.

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Has anyone tried Longshot for .45 ACP? I’m curious about how it performs compared to the usual suspects like Hodgdon HP-38.

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I’ve used it for .45 ACP loads and found it works quite well. It delivers a nice balance of power and recoil.

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I’m a newbie to reloading, but I’ve been told Longshot is a great first powder because of its versatility. Anyone have beginner load suggestions?

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Definitely! Start with a sample load from the Hodgdon reloading manual. A .40 S&W with Longshot is a solid choice!

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So much good info here! I keep coming back to Longshot for all my reloading needs. Can’t beat its performance for price.

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I couldn’t agree more! Reloading with Longshot is like riding a bike—you just get better and better.

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Anyone else think Longshot sounds like a cool name for a superhero? Perhaps a reload-obsessed vigilante?

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I’ve been using Hodgdon Longshot for my 9mm loads. A favorite of mine is 4.8 grains under a 124-grain FMJ, with an OAL of 1.135". Reliable and accurate for me!

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Thanks for sharing that, Jackie! I’ll have to try your load. I usually go with a 115-grain bullet but will switch it up now!

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For .40 S&W, I like 5.5 grains under a 180-grain bullet. OAL at 1.135" too. Excellent performance without pushing the limits!

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Those .40 S&W loads sound good, Joseph! I’ve been curious though, how does that load feel compared to factory rounds? Is it softer or snappier?