handloadEtymologyBy surface analysis, hand + load; possibly a back-formation from handloading (noun).handload means A cartridge that is handloaded. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 90 out of 100.nounA cartridge that is handloaded.“Factory pressures on these items don't run over 46,000 but your handloads undoubtedly would, and the old action design seems to me a poor bet. If you want to build a 6 mm. single-shot, I'd suggest a Winchester high wall, or the action made by Wilbur Hauck of West Arlington, Vermont. —W.P.”verbTo load (cartridges for firearms) by hand.“He handloads his match ammunition. For long range he uses 49½ grains of 4064 powder, the Sierra Match King (boattail) bullet and Government (F.A. [Frankford Arsenal]) primers. How does he get Government primers? He pulls the bullets out of […]”To load (a firearm, usually a pistol or rifle) by hand.