Question regarding reloading .40 cal for XD

[skylar957]

I am kind of new to reloading and have a question about loading the .40 cal. In my reloading books, it states I shouldn't load the 40 for pistols that don't support the cases fully (or something like that). My question is I am wondering what they mean or which handguns don't? I have a Springfield XD 40 and would like to know if it is safe to load for that. Thanks guys for all your help. Steve

[blpenn66502]

The XD is considered to have a fully supported chamber although your XD manual will tell you not to use reloads.  The unsupported chamber reference eludes to I suspect Glocks.  Best, Brian

[skylar957]

Thanks for the response Brian. steve

[Luckyducker]

I don't think any of the major firearms manufacturers are using barrels that don't fully support the case any longer.   Most of the problems with the 40's was the Glocks, but they changed their barrel design in that regard with the newer production ones, although they still have other brass issues.  Your XD should be fine so load for it safely and don't look back.  BTW, you can remove the barrel and place a case in the chamber and see if there is a portion of the case visible at the feed ramp cut-out as an easy test of barrel support if you are still unsure, if all you see is the case head you are good-to-go.  Good luck.

[Savage]

I believe all pistols of current manufacture claim "Fully Supported Chambers". Of course that's not exactly true, or rounds wouldn't feed. Any firearm in good condition is safe to load for if the loads are safe. I reload for everything I shoot, including Glock Forties.
Savage

[skylar957]

thanks for all the replies, I now have one more caliber I can reload for. Thanks again........steve