IMR-3031 for 55gr FMJ Load
I'm about to begin reloading for my PSA 20" bbl A4-style rifle, 1/7 twist chambered in 5.56mm. I've decided to initially work up a 55gr FMJ load using pulled M193 projectiles w/cannelures. I have on hand 2 unopened bottles of IMR-3031 (used on a 30-30 that I sold) that I'd like to use up before going to a more currently "popular" powder like H335 or CFE223. I see virtually no mention of IMR-3031 in any of the threads here, and my questions concerns suitability for my intended application. Is 3031 not favored because of metering difficulty, performance issues I'm not aware of, or other reasons? I figure 2lbs of powder will give me about 500 complete cartridges.
The balance of my components are LC once-fired brass and CCI - 41 primers, and load development will be chronographed (I load for several other bolt rifles). I intend to run this load out to 600yds as the gun is topped with a Nikon M223 2-8x. Later, I'll be developing a heavier bullet hunting/SD load using some RL15 I also have on hand. I'm doing all of this on a single-stage press, so I'm really not loading in volume just yet. I appreciate any experience you have to share using 3031...........
SS
3031 is a great powder, it just doesn't meter well, so you have to weigh each load.
Start around 23.8 working up, and you'll find a fantastic accuracy load for your rifle.
'Borg
Thanks for the input, sir. I kinda figured it was more a function of metering, and I'll be weighing individual charges anyway as I slowly get started. Once I get through my existing 3031 I'll move to an easier-metering powder anyway, I just wanted to use what I hand on hand first.
SS
Steves pages list for a 55gr bullet IMR-3031 From 20.5 grains to 26.0 grains. The IMR 3031 is my accuracy load with the Hornady 68 gr. bullet in a bolt action, 1-9 twist barrel. Does not meter well.
http://stevespages.com/page8a.htm
IMR-3031 will work well in 223 with 55 gr bullets.
I found my most accurate load right about max case capacity.
Work up your load and enjoy.
Not too popular due to metering issues.
The long grain 3031 doesn't go through a 22 cal neck worth a darn, by the time you have burned through a couple of pounds you will be really ready to go to a spherical powder that will meter well.
For 55fmj Im a fan of AA2230
Yup, metering can be an issue, but so can powder bridge. If you are going to use 3031 make sure you keep the powder from bridging at the case mouth or even in your funnel.
Long time 3031 user here. I've used it in .223, .308, and 7.62x39. My Lee Perfect Powder Measure meters it well. Everything else I use with an RCBS powder measure.
Originally Posted By We-rBorg:
3031 is a great powder, it just doesn't meter well, so you have to weigh each load.
Start around 23.8 working up, and you'll find a fantastic accuracy load for your rifle.
'Borg
Works good in 7.26NATO/308Win. The only problem I have is that you have to get the powder granules to thru the narrow .224" case mouth.
I've used it in 30-30 and 308, but I'm not a big fan, too much trouble to mess with for my taste.
What I have tried;
Plinking/Varmint Load
Bullet: 55gr Hornady Spitzer Flat bottom, #2265
Powder: 22.5grs IMR 3031 (got from a friend)
Primer: CCI 400 Small Rifle.
Cartridges: .223 Remington; Federal brass (trimmed to 1.75). OAL: 2.240
(magazine length)
Velocity: 2650 (average) Chronographed
Not accurate; 30yds, POI 2-1 / 2” and 1-1 / 2” (like it’s roaming)
(HS AR15, 16”Bbl, 1-9”Twist)
This is what I settled on;
Accurate load out of High Standard AR15, 16”Bbl, 1-9”Twist.
Plinking/Varmint Load - 223 Remington Cartridge
Bullet: 55gr Hornady Spitzer Flat bottom, #2265
Powder: 22.3grs IMR 4198
Primer: CCI 400 Small Rifle.
Cartridge: Remington & PMC (trimmed to 1.75). OAL: 2.240 (magazine length)
Velocity: 5 Chronographed Cartridges
High – 2714 fps
Low – 2532 fps
Avg – 2606 fps
