Author Topic: Developing loads... (Read 900 times)

wesseler · « **on:** August 04, 2003, 05:09:53 PM »

New barrel for T/C Encore: Bullberry in 6br 22" 1-12"twist. Six loads, five rounds each using 65 and 75V-max over Varget, Benchmark and VV N-135. Four shot groups with one fouler due to cleaning between groups. Four groups averaged .75, one .47 and one .36. All powder charges were 92% of listed max and all bullets were seated .003 into the lands. No signs of pressure... no cratered primers, just dimples. Just wondering if I should try all the loads again bumping the charge to 94% or just the two small group loads. BTW, they were both the 65Vmax's and I was hoping to do well with the 75's. All input appreciated. Many thanks, Wesseler.

Jose Grande · « **Reply #1 on:** August 05, 2003, 06:49:07 AM »

I am not a fan of max loads. With as small a group as you have there,(.36) I'm not sure you can get much smaller. I would stay with that load & try it some more,to be sure it is repeatable.
That is respectable accuracy for a target load, & very good for hunting.

The reason I don't favor max loads is this: One mistake in the loading process & you can go way over max pressure,creating a dangerous situation.
There could even be a slight variation in the powder itself,that affects the burn rate.

That said,I know guys that load max or higher, & we don't call them Stumpy,yet. I just don't like to push it,because if something goes wrong it's too late then.

wesseler · « **Reply #2 on:** August 05, 2003, 11:13:49 AM »

I plan on stopping short of cratered primers even if still under max. I want to reduce erosion as much as possible. Still have high hopes for the 75's so I think I'll jump another 2% with all combo's and see if any groups tighten or spread. Take care, -Wesseler.

Jose Grande · « **Reply #3 on:** August 07, 2003, 10:34:26 AM »

I understand.
Some cartriges like & shoot best with a max load.(.308 for example)
However,when you see a high pressure sign,in many cases you have went way over what was intended.
Please be very careful as you work these loads up near max.