What can you do if no data exists for a specific bullet weight during reloading?

When reloading ammunition, having precise data for the bullet weight being used is crucial for safety and performance. If there is no data available for a specific bullet weight, one recommended practice is to interpolate using existing book data. This approach involves taking known data points for weights that are close to the desired weight and calculating an estimated charge that would be appropriate for the bullet you are working with.

Interpolation relies on the fact that performance characteristics, such as velocity and pressure, tend to change in a predictable manner as the weight of the bullet increases or decreases. By using this method, you can make an educated guess about the appropriate powder charge for a bullet weight that does not have specific data, allowing you to find a charge that should operate safely within expected parameters.

This method is favored over simply skipping the load, as you are potentially able to create functional ammunition rather than abandoning a load entirely. Additionally, using the weight of the primer or increasing the powder charge without data could lead to dangerous pressure levels and poor performance, so these alternatives do not provide a safe or reliable solution. Hence, interpolation stands out as a responsible method for estimating safe reload data.