.223 53gr V-Max load suggestions

[kyabrams66]

I've been reloading for .308 for yrs now but I recently picked up an SPS Tac .223, 1/9 twist, 20" barrel that I'm getting ready to do some reloading for. On hand I have some 53 gr V-Max's, CCI 400 primers, LC brass and Varget, BLC2 and IMR 4895. I'm looking for some recipies from you 1/9 twist LTR/SPS guys that have been using the 53gr VMax's. From doing some searching it looks like if I go with the Varget that I should start about 23 and max about 26. Haven't really looked into the other powders.

 

[jwp6114]

25.5 grains of AA2230, has worked well for me, devistating on hogs and smaller animals.

 

[turbo54]

I think the powders you listed are all too slow for a 53gr bullet in 223. They'll work, but not optimally, if you care about achieving good velocity.

What is your purpose? Cheap plinking? Game effecitivenss? Accuracy?

My go-to powder for light(ish) bullets in 223 and 308 is H335. It meters beautifully, I've found it to be quite accurate and it gets fabulous velocity.

I haven't run the 53gr vmax, but with the 50gr Vmax and 27.0gr H335, a 16" Stag AR15 is sub-moa and runs ~3250fps

Blows the cranes on the corn/beanfields apart.

 

[Redleg84]

The best load I have found for my 16" AR is 53Vmax w/ 24gr of TAC. Not a hot load by any means but it's been the best shooter for me. Unfortunately I don't have the powders you mentioned to try out.