.22-243win load development question

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calvin5673

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Hey,

Had a .22-243 built, and it arrived last night. Going to start load development.
My thought was to start with .243win starting loads for the same powder and bullet weight and reduce down another 10%. Then begin work up from that point. I have measured the water capacity of a sized vs unsized case and the difference is on avg 4% less H20 capacity for the .22-243win. (52gr unsized .243, 50gr sized .22-243)

For example: Hodgdon lists 40gr H4895 with 55gr bullet. I was going to start out at 36gr. As a check the .220 swift has a max load of 37gr and I have 6% more case capacity.

Does that seem like a safe procedure? There are some other sources of load data out there but most tend to be for heavier bullets (75gr+).
 
I have had a couple 22-243s, I have the reamer for it.....what twist did you get? Anyway it doesn't matter for starting charges and you're on the right path looking at Swift loads. Another trick I worked out is to use loads for the 243 with bullets weighing 20 grains more than your 22 cal ones IE 22 cal 50gns = 24 cal 70 gns.........55 = 75.......60 = 80. Start with the powder that you want and the appropriate starting load for the corresponding 243 load in the book using a 20 grn heavier bullet.
Easiest and safest is to start with max 220 Swift loads and work up...........using this as a min 22-243 place to start. It works too.
Stick to the slower end of the powders acceptable for use in the Swift and 243.........they will give you the best performance from this cartridge. As far as safe maximums go, you are on your own with your choice of components and rifle, and welcome to the world of wildcats. There are no manuals to tell you "do not tread past this point", and it is incumbent upon you to know how to safely read your pressure signs. Have fun, it's a great cartridge and a serious step up from a 22-250, or even the Swift when loaded to potential in a long barrel.
The reason you can find lots of data for heavier bullets in the 22-243 is because most guys choose the larger cases to increase velocity over the Swift or Swift AI with heavier bullets. Let's face it, the Swift and it's AI cousin already run the 45-55 gn class of bullets to well over 4000 fps so there is very little more to be gained with these lighter bullets and their poor BCs. However getting more velocity from 60 gn and up bullets makes a lot of sense and has more applications for hunting larger varmints at extreme ranges and even smaller big game where legal.
 
So, first round out. 19rounds down. still got my face and fingers so I guess my loads worked. haha. did as suggested 220 swift max loads, and .243 loads with 20gr heavier bullets. seems to be good so far.
 
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