223 Savage bolt action in Varget and 2520 powders

[gcp]

Gents,

I just reloaded 10 rounds of 69gr SMK with 26gr Varget while the Lee manual indicates max powder charge of 25.5gr. Should I take them down or will they be safe to shoot out of a Savage action with bull barrel?

I addition, I am trying Accurate 2520, for the first time, with 26gr over the 69gr SMK. The Accurate manual states a range of 23.2-25.8 while my Lee manual sates 25.2-27. Big difference here, what gives? Your suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[gcp]

Re: 223 Savage bolt action in Varget and 2520 powders

Both max loads worked quite well in my Savage bolt action with no pressure issues whatsoever! But please undestand, I am in no way recommending these specs for you. Know your rifle and what it can handle before you try the above!!

 

[Queequeg]

Re: 223 Savage bolt action in Varget and 2520 powders

I use that load under that same bullet. Also a 70 grain speer bullet if memory serves.

A little of a pain in the ass with the bridging but had no problems using non-military brass.

 

[vman]

Re: 223 Savage bolt action in Varget and 2520 powders

gcp, just to be safe load a few loads with charges below what you have already loaded.

For example 24.0, 24.5, 25.0, and 25.5gr varget.

Shoot those 4 rounds first and if you have no pressure signs then chances are 26.0 should be fine to shoot.

IF however 25.0 grains is showing signs of overpressure, then I would not recomend you shoot the 26.0 grains of varget, unless you are happy to accept the consequences (short brass life, short barrel life and the possibility of a dangerous situation).

Happy shooting my friend

 

[gcp]

Re: 223 Savage bolt action in Varget and 2520 powders

Guys, I did shoot the lighter loads, prior to yesterday, without any pressure signs so I figured I'd give it a go on the high side. The rifle shot my above specified hot rounds perfectly well but accuracy I believe is better with Varget at 24.5-25gr whereas with 2520 it seems to like it hot.

I am still amazed with the load data variance between companies.

 

[vman]

Re: 223 Savage bolt action in Varget and 2520 powders

Well they each test these loads out in different rifles, and as we all know each rifle behaves differently from the next.

Some may even be conservative for safety/legal reasons.

 

[Seawalker]

Re: 223 Savage bolt action in Varget and 2520 powders

I have shot 26g Varget under 69's with no problem and get about 2,925 fps and sub moa about .7 in a Savage with 22"barrel, but that's me and not you. Best accuracy came at 25.4-25.6 averaging about .4 moa and 2,850 fps for me. Caveat emptor!

Haven't shot 2520