sticky 7.62 reloads

[Brian G]

I shot some 7.62 NATO in my m700. I reloaded it just to try. I FL resized with .308 die and reduced by 10%. The rounds chambered fine. After firing, bolt lift was fine but extraction was very sticky. It took two hands sticky. Brass had no pressure signs, only sooty necks. Question is, what's going on. The brass was fireformed in same rifle and FL resized. After this I thought that the outer dimensions of the 7.62 case would be identical to 308. I've never had sticky 308 case's loading to identical dimensions, trim, col, etc. Using 8208 powder.

 

[Phil1]

Internal case capacity of mil brass is usually 4% less than commercial due to thicker base web & wall thickness. Results in increased pressure.

 

[M14 Shooter]

IMR 8208 builds pressure quick.I works real well with lighter bullets.But would not recommend with 168 or heavier.I have had friends using that powder with 155 SMK.They switched to Varget due to pressure issues.I love IMR 8208 for 223 with 77 grain bullets.IMR 8208 reminds me a lot of N-135.It shoots bug holes but shows pressure signs real quick.

Regards,Mike

 

[rjacobs]

IMR 8208 builds pressure quick.I works real well with lighter bullets.But would not recommend with 168 or heavier.I have had friends using that powder with 155 SMK.

Bingo. I have loaded it in 308 with 155 SMK's and had good success, but for anything heavier like the 168's or 175's there are better choices. Varget, R15, 4064, etc...