All handguns are different, but normally bullets have a bigger impact on accuracy and performance than powders. I usually test bullets first in any new pistol to find a projectile that it prefers using a powder generally recognized as suitable for that cartridge and bullet weight. Then I experiment with different powders (if necessary) to refine the load.

Here are some powders that I can recommend for some common handgun cartridges that normally give good results with the bullet weights specified. With the single exception of the .38 Special Wadcutter loads, all of these powder recommendations are for use with jacketed, not lead, bullets. (They may work with lead bullets, but that's not how I use them.)

Where possible I have listed more than one powder, but never more than three to minimize confusion. Other powders may work as well or better in your pistol, but these should be suitable to at least get started. (Caliber, bullet weight - powder.)

• .221 Fireball, 45-55 grains - IMR 4198, IMR 4227, RL-7
• .32 S&W Long, 85-100 grains - HS6, 2400
• .32 H&R Magnum, 85-100 grains - HS6, 2400
• .32-20 (revolver), 85-110 grains - W231
• .32-20 (T/C), 85-110 grains - H110, IMR 4227, W296
• 9x19 Luger, 115-147 grains - HS6, W231
• .357 Magnum, Midrange loads, 125-160 grains - HS6, W231
• .357 Magnum, Maximum loads, 125-160 grains - H110, W296, 2400
• .38 Special, Lead wadcutter loads, 148 grains - Bulleseye, W231
• .38 Special, Standard loads, 125-158 grains - HS6, W231
• .38 Special +P, 125-158 grains - HS6
• .40 S&W, 155-200 grains - HS6, HS7
• 10mm Auto, 155-200 grains - HS6, HS7
• .41 Magnum, Midrange loads, 170-220 grains - HS6
• .41 Magnum, Maximum loads, 170-220 grains - H110, W296, 2400
• .44 Special, 200-250 grains - HS6
• .44 Magnum, Midrange loads, 200-300 grains - HS6
• .44 Magnum, Maximum loads, 200-300 grains - H110, W296, 2400
• .45 ACP, 185-230 grains - HS6
• .45 Long Colt, 200-300 grains - HS6
• .454 Casull, 240-300 grains - H110, W296, 2400