Min charge & case volume

[daschnoz]

I'm loading 7.62x39 with 25gr of Reloader 7.

If I use the 123gr .310 bullets for this cartridge, the seating depth is shallow enough that I don't compress the powder - in fact, you can hear the power if you shake the round. If I load with 125gr Speer TNT bullets (they are slightly longer), I end up compressing the powder slightly.

In order to not compress the powder with the Speer bullet, I am below the minimum charge weight in the book. The case is 100% full with no air space.

I have a feeling that dropping below the minimum is ok since the load density is 100%, but I want to verify...

Performance and velocity aside, is it safe to drop below minimum in this scenario?

[MAINER]

Don't know what "book" you;re using, but Hodgdon Manual #26 has 24.5 grs of Reloader 7 as starting load with 122-125 gr bullets. 25.5 gr is listed as MAX.

I don't see a problem with your load, but it doesn't look like it's lacking much. Could be a large variation for this cartridge. I've never loaded for it, only had milsurp. ammo.

[BUFF]

Compressing an otherwise safe (manual-listed with your components) powder charge isn't a problem. Mucho factory ammo has compressed powder charges.