Finally may have found the magic .243 load

[guzzijohn]

Over the last year I have made a few posts concerning accuracy frustrations with my .243 Handi bull barrel. After trying a different combinations of brands and bullet weights the best groupings at could get at 100 yards was around three inches with most being in the 6-8 inch range and sometimes even worse. Check and tried most suggestions on improving accuracy without much result. I just recently got into reloading. I guess I should have bought a lotto ticket as my very first reloads shot 11/8" five shot group. Was able to repeat this with generally having three of the five shot making a 1/3 inch cloverleaf. This was a mild load as it was my first load. I will now try speeding it up a bit and see what happens. The load I used was:

Hornady brass
33gr. of H4895
Nosler Spitzer 95gr. bullet
Federal Match Primers

Guzzijohn

[Saloon slug]

Sounds like you are on the right path. Keep playing with the load and tell us what happens.

[imhandi301]

Handloading is the greatest.  I've been doing so about 5 years, with still much to learn.  I have noticed the same as you...IMPROVED accuracy.  Gets one hooked huh?

[NAM70]

I've used 4895 25 years ago in a 243 and really liked it. I'm going to try it in a 204 but I'll be using IMR4895 because thats what my dealer stocks and thats what I've been using. I know H and IMR 4895 are similar but I really know the difference. I just don't mix the two. I think its a good all around accurate powder. I've also got some of the best groups out of my 243 with it. Good luck and have fun.

[guzzijohn]

Thanks for the encouraging posts. It is just such a relief to have the Handi shooting well for once. I was really considering selling or trading it soon. I just do not like guns that will not shoot reasonably well or better. If I miss I want to know it is my fault not the guns. I bought it as a knock around gun as I moved to the country a couple of years ago. I do not hunt much but but my previously pacifist wife became very supportive of killing skunks after a couple of our pets were sprayed. A .243 stops them well with little smell.
Guzzijohn

[snapcrackpop]

I do not hunt much but but ...
Guzzijohn

If she thinks skunks are pesky, remind her that deer are down right dangerous.  Just ask State Farm!