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Bear in mind that each firing system is unique. QL provides a guide based on mathematics. It is usually quite close in the projections provided to the actual firing system. Small changes in chamber dimensions, barrel dimensions, powder lots, etc. are somewhat amplified in either direction. This is the reason that you need to read the pressure signs as you work your load. If there are no signs of excessive pressure, I'd be inclined to increase in small increments until I saw that limit if I was pursuing velocity. My personal practise is to work for accuracy in my hunting loads. Velocity differentials seldom make a major difference in loads that will launch a projectile under 400 yards or so. As the saying goes, YMMV.
I will note that the data Hodgdon provides is pressure tested, which should give a measure of comfort. They don't publish a load that they feel is unsafe. Many people have questioned why the various manufacturers that publish load data aren't in more absolute agreement. I've always taken the view that the loads (QL or published data) are recommendations and not to be taken as absolute, since I must verify in my own firing system that the load is safe. That is on me. Hope that helps.
I loaded some 6.5 Creedmoor last December for my new Henry Long Ranger. I used 130 grain AccuBond and went .5 grains less than max for a load by Nosler. Now the difference was I used Starline brass instead of the Hornady in the recipe. I lowered my seating die little to low so my first round was pushed in a little deeper. Rest of loads were at right depth when I shot them the speed was actually faster than the Nosler book recipe even with less powder and it was cold outside using RE17. No signs of pressure but I still decide that was a sign that I need to actually lower the powder load even more but shot the round that was seated lower and it locked up my lever bolt it was really hard to open up. That lower seated bullet was just a touch lower but it really changed the pressure amount the primer was punctured.what DrMike explains for quickload , also holds true for the books . the book info is probably pressure tested by the powder manufacture , or the bullet manufacture . the problem is they pressure tested using their lot of powder , their primer , their brass case , using their test rifle , or pressure barrel . so now we are right back to the same place . this brings up a very important rule ; start low and work up , while watching for signs of pressure .