G/Day Folks
I took my 35.303 to the range to finish running in the barrel and to find a load that shot nice round accurate groups. Last range session I was cleaning after every shot, then after every 2nd and the Barrel was not Copper fouling to any degree. Today the loads where hotter than last week and I was cleaning after every 3 for the first 12 shots then to a 5 shot cycle for the rest of the day. There was some Copper fouling evident but I have owned Rifles that Copper fouled far more. It's obviously a good smooth bore from the start.
I predicted last week the Rifle was looking like it may like 44 grains of ADI AR2208, CCI 200 primers and 225 grain Sierra Gamekings. Spot on, 43.5 and 44 grain groups where the tightest and roundest groups of the day.
I have been surprised how markedly with each load the recoil increased and once I hit 43.5 grains an audible thud and great clods of dirt began flying from the back stop which had bystanders wondering what I was shooting
Immediatly above 44 grains the groups opened up. I did load up as high as 45.5 grains of AR2208, the bolt handle lifted with one finger and ejected cleanly, primers where not showing undue flattening etc -------- but it paterned and 45 grains did not pattern much better.
I have been testing my loads based on supplied ballistics programme data max loads another chap that has a 35.303 has been using and they indicate a max load of 47.9 grains in his No4 Mk1. As my Rifle is a No1 Mk3 SMLE in theory the action is a little more flexible, though it is rated at the same pressure. I am using a Picatinny rail which must stiffen the action a little.
I have also put this down to the 44 grain load giving the best barrel harmonics with the Rifles current bedding. I am intrigued however at the lack of pressure signs with the cartridge, easy bolt lift etc and why accuracy went to pot so quickly. I wonder if I pushed it beyond 45.5 grains would it come back into a round group again?
?
Not much use wondering to much I'm also happy I found a nice sweet load that's not stressing the Rifle and I'm not into hotrodding
Here's the targets I shot at 50 yards. I did not bother adjusting the scope as each load printed a different point of impact. Perhaps a minor bedding issue as there was some stringing but that dissapeared once I found the sweetest load from the batch I had done up
Ignore the .22 calibre holes - it did not go well. The new scope on my Browning BL22 is a dud, could not zero it and the impact point shifted from shot to shot - back to the Gunshop for a warrantee exchange. No need to dis any scope manufacturers - they all put out duds from time to time
Please no comments about my obvious poor form and trigger control. The Rifle still has the standard Military trigger. I like the 2 stage trigger but it's heavy enough that I torque the Rifle occasionly trying to squeeze a shot off. Overall it's no worse than either of my Lever Rifles and I've never noticed their triggers in the heat of a hunt. It's a cheaper option to import an aftermarket trigger than to have a Smith hone it and swap springs etc. As a Gunsmith I make a good billiards player and I won't attempt stoning new angles etc myself
Next range session I'll fine tune loads around the 44 grain mark and zero the scope properly. I will also set the Recknagel sights and test how repeatable my quick detatch rings are. The barrel is all but run in now, fired 72 rounds sure it may settle in a little more. The more I shoot my 35.303 the more I like it.
I'm really enjoying working out my first Wildcat cartridge and the SMLE action, likely won't be my last custom Lee Enfield, a 45.90 No4 Mk1 holds lots of appeal.
Next range session I'll have a Chronograph and I'll post my numbers.
regards Jacko
