Sig Elite Performance and first reload

[KenCar]

Hey Everyone. Finally got out the Chrono and did some test.  One test was my second set of target ammo.  The first set did not get the chrono as I just wanted to see if I had it right.  All went well.  I started low(learned this from reloading rifle ammo) and went midrange. Today, the chrono came out.  First test was the Sig Elite Performance TMJ 180gr I pick up at Academy for $25 for a box of 50.  It tested to the velocity on the box of 1250 avg.  I then tested my midrange (safe) round of 180gr Speer TMJ and average 1150 fps with 10.4gr of BlueDot.  No pressure signs on the primers(CCI 300 LP - still rounded and no crater) or brass(New Starline),from what I can tell anyway. I want to see how close I can come, or pass, the Sig Elite.  I do believe I have room to go up in charge weight and any advice will be greatly appreciated. 
Oh, there was a third test of just a couple of Hunters Supply Hard Cast 180gr.  They were at the same level as the Speer.

Sorry, no accuracy test yet.  I know it goes hand in hand, but have to get used to reloading pistol. 

I do have some Sierra Sports Master 165gr on the way and any advice on alternate powders and starting charges will be appreciated, also. I did find a recipe on the Alliant site for BlueDot with a 165gr, so I will probably start a little low from that.     

Oh. RIA Ultra 10mm FS HC 5".

[The_Shadow]

KenCar, thanks for your range report!  Yes the Sig did meet their box in my test early on, they were using BE-86 powder when I looked into them!
The 10.4 grains of Blue Dot can be a very accurate load with 170-180 grain bullets...Has been one of my favorite target loads since 1990 where I was loading it before there was book data.

[tommac919]

And yes, if slow and careful , you can go higher than 10.4 gr of Blue Dot... ( tho 10.4 is the sweet spot for accuracy )

Some of the older books show 11gr max with a 180 head.  I've used these in a G20/3 without issue but work up slow as each gun if diff.

BTW, Used 10.4 of BD with a 200XTP and it worked fine... but work up here too.

[Kenk]

For sure, 10.4 gr of Blue Dot is absolutely the sweet spot for accuracy, by far my favorite 180gr load.

Ken

[KenCar]

Thanks for the feedback everyone! I have to load up quite a few more. I have the 165 pills coming soon and looking forward to see how they load up.  But, may have to wait until I make it back on a run to Colorado to deliver some custom cabinets and furniture to a retired Warrant who is a good friend of mine.  Bringing toys to play with if the weather permits.