Well, I would respectfully disagree as to "max"/hot loads depending on how one looks at it. I shoot an over "max" load by most modern manuels in my Kimber 84 222 Rem. I ream the neck ID and neck size only and I'm back up there with a max load of the 1950's. With 21.0 gr. IMR 4198, a Rem 7 1/2 primer, and a 50 gr. spitzer I get 3350 fps on a hot summer afternoon. Accuracy is 1/2 Moa or better at 100 yds. No signs of pressure and I've yet to lose a case. It all depends on the firearm, the chamber, and the components used. The key is to work up low and discover what is a max load in your particular rifle/revolver and then back off a bit. I will agree that to just put together a "max"/hot load in a firearm and cut loose is not only foolhardy but down right foolish. Right now I'm pushing 2.0 gr. over book max with a particular powder and bullet in a Marlin 336 30/30 and have yet to reach a max in this particular rifle. I'm close but not there yet. When I get there, I'll back off a bit and have a dandy load for deer. So... hot loads aren't necessarily hot depending on the firearm used and the method used in working up the load. Just food for thought.
Muab Dib