Anyone Tried R-17 in a 6.5x55 w/142 SMK?

[300ATT]

I was wondering if there is anyone on the Hide that has experimented with R-17 and the 6.5x55 pushing heavy match bullets (139 - 142gr). I have had good results w/H4350 but was tempted by all of the rumored velocity claims when using R-17. Any help is appreciated.

 

[chas1759]

Re: Anyone Tried R-17 in a 6.5x55 w/142 SMK?

The load program I have says 43.4 gr/RL17=2885fps w/55025psi, that only uses 85.7% of your case capacity. Thats calc't with a 28" barrel. Max calc load with H4350 was 44.7gr=2899fps w/55114psi.
I recommend getting a copy of Quickload, the data is USUALLY conservative, but it gives ya a good starting place.

 

[300ATT]

Re: Anyone Tried R-17 in a 6.5x55 w/142 SMK?

Thanks for the input. Will start low. Kind of like a blind squirrel ... sometimes you find the nut but sometimes ...

 

[Pthfndr-CA]

Re: Anyone Tried R-17 in a 6.5x55 w/142 SMK?

I run the 139 Scenar with Lapua brass, 43.5gr RL17 in my Tikka 695 with 29" barrel. 2925-2950 fps at 200 asl at 90-105 degree amb. No pressure signs. FL resize each time. Have 8 loadings on one set of brass.

 

[300ATT]

Re: Anyone Tried R-17 in a 6.5x55 w/142 SMK?

Pthfndr-CA:
I will be shooting from a 24.5" barrel. Any guess as to the velocity penalty over you 29" barrel?