Hot loading for my break action?

Marshnasty

Marshnasty

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Saskatchewan, The bush not the prairies.
I'm reloading for my .243, it is a NEF Handi Rifle, 22 inch barrel with 1:10 twist.
I am loading 95 gr Hornady SST with IMR 4831, starting with the low charge of 38 grains of powder moving up in 1 grain increments to 42 and then 42.5 as the manual suggests max charge. Heading to the range tomorrow and wondering what to look for pressure signs of too hot I should look for if any as I'm within the boundaries of the manual? Also is it worth the little extra time to load a few hotter loads to check out?
 
I shoot all of my rifles for accuracy first. Velocity is second. But when you really think about it is 100 or even 200 fps worth it! How much difference does it really make?

Now having said that I have burned out barrels on a 22-250 and 25-06. But that is because if many rounds down range. Not velocity.
 
lpel said:
I shoot all of my rifles for accuracy first. Velocity is second. But when you really think about it is 100 or even 200 fps worth it! How much difference does it really make?

Now having said that I have burned out barrels on a 22-250 and 25-06. But that is because if many rounds down range. Not velocity.
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I agree with Ipel, accuracy first then speed.

The more room for error I give myself, the more successful I tend to be for some reason.
 
I wouldn't be shy of loading factory-equivalent, but certainly no hotter. As has been said, an extra 100 fps will make little difference in normal hunting conditions.
 
Slamfire said:
Maximum loads listed for use in a Handi Rifle? At the mercy of the spring ejector.
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Exactly.
Parts will break when you least expect it.
Save your powder for more reloads when you figure out what your gun likes.
And save wear and take in your gun so you can shoot longer between trips to the parts store.
Plus, you'll also save time when you have found the sweet spot and the others will not have to be torn down .
Just my .02 worth.
Rob
 
What manual are u using? Most manuals max loads won't give u pressure signs at all. Try your max published loads before you go beyond. Some bullet/powder combos may group to your satisfaction below max, others may improve as they near or exceed max. When u work beyond max go in small charge increments. Good luck and be careful. Have respect for what your doing.
 
brewmech said:
What manual are u using? Most manuals max loads won't give u pressure signs at all. Try your max published loads before you go beyond. Some bullet/powder combos may group to your satisfaction below max, others may improve as they near or exceed max. When u work beyond max go in small charge increments. Good luck and be careful. Have respect for what your doing.
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This was the answer I was looking for. Thanks for the input.
 
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