M95 8X56R Range Report

[MnMike]

Bought some 200 gr bullets and brass from Buffalo Arms and made a Guess on the very mild side for a load - nothing I had matched the bullet weight.

The bullets seem to rapidly taper down from the .329 size, so if you seat them a bit deep, the bullet falls into the case. I seated them out and checked that they fit the throat of my rifle. I wish Lee made their factory crimp die for this one. I think I will use some lacquer or fingernail polish to lock the bullet to the cartridge. Even one of my seated long loads fell into the case during the ride to my land.  I used Varget as a powder - it has been lucky for me.

I did a quick check at 25 yds. and moved to 50. I am not a great shot with iron sights, but had two touching and the third less than an inch away. Not bad for a 113 yr old design.

mike

[Oldtimer]

My results with military ammo were in the four inch range at 100 yards.  I am glad to know that the reloadable components do such a good job. I would guess that the bullets were designed for a particular LOA.  The manufacturer should have data on recommended seating depth.  I plan to work up some lead loads this year and try mine on deer this coming season.  The bore on my carbine looks brand new, and I think it has potential as a lead bullet gun.  The velocities acheivable are within the capability of lead.