Author Topic: 223 wssm issues  (Read 646 times)

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Offline Awf Hand

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223 wssm issues
« on: January 04, 2005, 04:51:38 PM »
Hey guys,

A co-worker of mine bought one of these burners.  He has been using factory rounds only and has had some problems.

The accuracy was dandy at first.  No problems.  Weather was as weather normally is in WI in October.  Temps were in the 50's and 60's.  Groups were all sub-inch or nearly so at 100yds.
Last week (temps in the 10's-20's) he tried it again.  Groups were 2" plus with ammo from the same manufacturer (and lot number) that he'd used before.  The bolt was difficult to open after each round was fired.  He also noticed a lot of black soot on the neck area of the fired cases.

What could he be experiencing?

My first thought was housekeeping...  I just met this guy and I don't know what his cleaning habits are like.  The only other variable that I could think about was the weather.  WOuld the necks be less maleable at colder temps and not as apt to blow out to chamber size, giving him a lot more blowby and jamming his chamber with gunk??

Anybody have any thoughts??

Thanks in advance.
Just my Awf Hand comments...

Offline Patriot_1776

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223 wssm issues
« Reply #1 on: January 05, 2005, 09:31:46 AM »
Definitely sounds to me the extreme cold weather affected the pressure curve.  When it is very cold, the powder's burning rate is affected slightly, hence preventing the gases from expanding like they would in warmer weather.  Basically, the cold weather causes pressures to run lower, and that contributes to carbon being deposited inside the chamber/on the cases.  The lower pressures will not force the brass into the chamber's walls completely and seal off the gas's ability to enter the chamber.  Reverse could occur if a good load was developed in colder weather, and would be taken and shot in warmer weather.  Watch for pressure signs, as the powder will now burn more "readily" and pressures could spike above the standard limits.  I read that when loads are going to be fired knowingly in extreme cold conditions, it would be better to work up loads using magnum primers to ensure a more consistent ignition which would contribute to more reliable pressures and accuracy.  

-Patriot
-Patriot

Offline Lawdog

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223 wssm issues
« Reply #2 on: January 05, 2005, 02:22:42 PM »
Quote
(temps in the 10's-20's)


Sorry I can't help you with that one.  My wife won't let me shoot my .223 WSSM(or any other rifle for that matter) in the house and that's where I would be, by the fireplace.  Although I believe that Patriot is on the right tract.  Lawdog
 :D
Gary aka Lawdog is now deceased. He passed away on Jan. 12, 2006. RIP Lawdog. We miss you.