I am just getting into finding a load for a new rifle. We went out the other day and ran a test with incremental powder weights through a chronograph. I have a custom rifle with a 24' proof barrel. I am using Berger 140 Hybrids which in my rifle would give me an OAL to land contact = 2.895. My test rounds were seated to an OAL of 2.865. I know some of these charges may shoot great, but we have not had the weather to go and shoot groups. I have not noticed any signs of pressure and have reached a low SD, but do I go any higher with charge weight? I was hoping to be at least at 2700. Another thought was that it was 48 degrees during the test. Do I need to about these loads when it is 90 degrees? I am fairly new to this kind of precision, so any insight or direction would be greatly appreciated.
6.5 Creedmoor Load Development
- Thread starter Madviker
- Start date
Still seems slow. Even my slow barreled Tikka would easily push 140gr bullets just above 2700 fps. How many rounds have you shot out of the barrel? Seems like you may be just short of a node since your top end numbers start looking promising. I'd push it up another couple tenths and see what it looks like into the low 43 grains. What are you using to measure your powder?
reloading book loads are horseshit. your loads are even below most factory ammo.
do up in .5 grain increments until you find YOUR rifle's max load. the back down and do smaller increments
I think you’ll still be able to find some speed.
Venture forward into the happy realm that is beyond book max.
Venture forward into the happy realm that is beyond book max.
