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Posted: 1/9/2012 2:53:41 PM EDT
| So for my first reloads ever I figured I'd start at the minimum load and work my way up til I get the most accurate load. I'm using Hornady 75gr HPBT & Varget, and after researching different loads that people seem to have good luck with I've noticed most peoples loads are anywhere between 23gr-25gr. Well the Hornady manual listed the minimum load at like 19.4gr, so I started out at around 19.7gr. Anyways what I'm getting at is how safe are underloaded rounds? I only made like 20 rounds with ~19.7gr in them so should I just empty them all and reload them with more powder? I tried to run a couple charges through my new perfect powder measure but it still wasn't spot on every time yet, I'm assuming I need to run more powder to get rid of the static electricity. |
| Varget Bolt or AR? The auto may not eject if too llight. Give it a try, you only loaded 20. The lightest charge on Hodgdon is 21.0gr., ever with bullet that are heavier. The Sierra data listed gives different loading data for bolt & auto. Have a look. http://www.accurateshooter.com/cartridge-guides/223rem/ |
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http://hgmould.gunloads.com/casting/whisperloads.htm
YMMV. Lead seems to be your best bet. Semi-autos may not cycle. When working down, If you didn't see the impact, check the barrel. google whisper loads and ultralight loads. |
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The way I interpret that kind of difference in minimum and maximum charges from one manual to the next, at least for .223/5.56, is that the lower charges may be intended for bolt guns and starting at a somewhat higher minimum will most likely be ok for a gas gun. Unless the cartridge is very significantly under charged, I think the most significant problem you'll see with lighter loads will be short stroking the action and that will manifest itself as a failure to feed the next round from the mag.
Oh, and I picked up a Savage Axis in .223 at the gunshow this weekend. Going to ignore my algebra homework tomorrow and head to the range. If this gun works out, I'll probably have an AR on the for-sale boards soon. Sam |
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Before I start loading at minimum published charges, I calculate the charge 10% less than the maximum shown. If that charge is greater, then that's where I start. Loading a full spectrum of loads ranging from minimum to maximum in most cases simply burns up too many components, although it is educational if done in conjuction with a chronograph.
I also recommend using increments of no less than 0.4 grains even in cases the size of .223 Rem, and most of the time a half grain works fine. I've done the 0.3 grain thing, and it's simply not necessary. Sometimes I load the minimum charge weight because I'm loading a light bullet and I want light recoil. A 110 grain bullet in .30-06 is still starting out at 3000 fps or a little more. Pay attention to the range of charge weights listed for straight wall pistol cases, often the spread from minimum to maximum is far less than a difference of 10%. Watch for warnings about reducing the charge below the published minimum, too. |
| Yea I think I should definitely invest in more manuals, and thanks aero I'll definitely consider the 10% thing from now on. O well, I'm kinda tempted to buy a chronograph anyways, I was contemplating it when I got into bow hunting and now I'd have more uses for one if I got it. |
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