Encouraging Range Report, 223 Ultra

[Dean van Praotl]

Best result yet since I started tinkering with loads for my 223 Ultra.  I decided to try loading some rounds with Varget after reading the mail.

I haven't done any of the usual mods (O-rings and such.)  Shooting with bipod and sandbags under the buttstock, best group today was 0.698".  The load was 27.0 grains of Varget behind a 40 grain Nosler ballistic tip.  I also tried crimped vs. uncrimped loads -- with the Lee Factory Crimp die the velocities were slightly higher, about 40 fps average.  Accuracy was slightly better with the crimped rounds but not much; groups averaged only 0.06" better with the crimp.

IMO, Varget is too slow for the 223; at 3,200 fps it's 400 fps slower than Black Hills ammo with the same bullet.  I'll be trying other powders but I'm at least encouraged.

[jack19512]

I have been working up a load for my 223 Ultra.  It might be just luck more than anything but a couple days ago I shot a 3 shot group into a ragged hole from 100 yards.

The load I used was 26gr. of 4895 and a 40gr. hp Barnes Varminator bullet.  I loaded up some more to see how they will do.  So far I haven't had very good success with Varget.  My Ultra shoots good from a bi-pod.

[myarmor]

Good report and pics as well, Thanks for sharing them.
Always good to hear positive news from a Hanid owner, and from the looks of it your rifle is only going to shoot better if your off to such a good start.
-Aaron