300 RUM Load

[Val]

I acquired some Berger VLD hunting bullets in 175 grain. These bullets have a very high BC. My intent is to play with some longer range shooting with my Savage 300 RUM. To save me time and components, does anyone have a good accurate load for this bullet? I would use your suggestion as a starting point and would start lower. I have some Retumbo powder that I want to try. If not a 175 grain load, does anyone have a good load with Retumbo powder and 180 grain bullets. Again I would use your data as a starting point but start with a lower powder load.
Thanks

[Reed1911]

I highly recommend the Retumbo powder, I'd use about 99.5-100.0 for the 175g VLD. Actual start is 94.0 and max is 100.5

[Buckskin]

I don't shoot 175's but do like the Retumbo.  Use it for 180 Partitions and Rem primers.  I think I settled right about 100g.  Let us know how they shoot for you. I've been thinking about trying those bullets.

[Val]

Well, I tried the 99.5 and 100 grain Retumbo loads for the 175 Grain Berger VLD. Both powder charges yielded 1 1/2" three shot groups. I'm going to try the 100.5 grain max and some lower powder charges going down in .5 grain increments starting at 99 grains. There may be a sweet spot at a lower charge. I'm also going to try some IMR 4350.

[Reed1911]

How far out are you seating the VLD's? You need to keep them as close as possible to the lands most of the time to get the most out of the accuracy on them. BUT !!!! you need to reduce your charge once you move the bullet out as it will increase pressure.