ApexLOAD PRO vs Gordon Reloading Tool (GRT)
Gordon Reloading Tool (GRT) and ApexLOAD PRO are internal ballistics platforms designed to estimate chamber pressure, case fill ratio, propellant burn characteristics, and muzzle velocity for specific load configurations. Each system provides access to broad component databases covering numerous calibers, projectiles, and powders, enabling users to evaluate potential load combinations before conducting live-fire validation.
Despite their shared analytical purpose, the two solutions differ significantly in structure and deployment model. GRT operates as a locally installed desktop application. Users download and run the software on their own computer, with all associated data stored on that device. While development and maintenance continue, the program remains machine-specific, meaning data backups, transfers, and multi-device synchronization must be handled independently by the user.
ApexLOAD PRO follows a web-based architecture. It runs entirely in a browser environment and does not require installation. Because the platform is cloud-hosted, users can access their accounts and stored load data from multiple devices without manual synchronization. This approach removes operating system constraints and centralizes data management.
Database administration and user interaction also distinguish the two. ApexLOAD PRO maintains an actively updated component database, and users can submit requests for additional components or feature improvements. The status of these submissions can be viewed online, providing transparency into ongoing development. GRT, while regularly updated by its developer, relies primarily on traditional software release cycles rather than a publicly tracked request system.
A structured comparison outlining feature differences and workflow considerations is provided below.
| Attribute | ApexLOAD PRO48/50ApexLOAD PRO is an advanced interior ballistics solution built for reloaders who aim to improve safety, repeatability, and precision while minimizing unnecessary experimentation. The platform calculates essential performance indicators such as peak chamber pressure, muzzle velocity, and powder bu... Read more | Gordon Reloading Tool (GRT)42/50Rather than serving as a static load table, GRT simulates the internal ballistic cycle by allowing users to enter detailed cartridge data, including propellant selection and charge weight, bullet dimensions, and other relevant variables. Using these inputs, the program generates projected pressur... Read more |
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| General | ||
Application Format | web application - can be accessed from any device with a web browser | Available as a .zip download. Requires local installation. Supports Windows and Linux only. |
Update Availability | continuous updates, can be tracked on the webpage | The last officially published stable version of GRT was released in 2021 (often referenced as the 2021.2030 nightly build). It is indicated that this version will not be further developed in its classic form.  |
Cross-device accessibility | ||
Price of application | €29.00 appr. $34.50 | free |
Price of updates | free | free |
| Data Quality and Transparency | ||
Overall Cartridge Length | ||
Case Capacity | ||
Barrel Length | ||
Load Density | ||
| Coverage | ||
Number of Load Recipes | 4,215,296 Calculator with an indefinite number of recipe options | Calculator with an indefinite number of recipe options |
Number of Bullet Brands | 66 | 62 |
Number of Bullets | 4,966 | 4,267 |
Number of Calibers | 445 | 413 |
Number of Powder Brands | 18 | 18 |
Number of Powders | 266 | 249 |
| Additional features | ||
Load Diary | ||
Velocity Measurement Log | ||
| Calculator options | ||
Trajectory Calculator / Data | ||
Target Velocity Calculator | ||

