.223 Rem powder options

jibjedi

jibjedi

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Just recently geared up to reload for the first time. I am going to reload .223 Rem cartriges for both an AR15 and bolt action rifle.

I have some Nosler 69 grain custom competition bullets that I would like to use. Could someone please suggest what a good powder would be to use with these bullets?

I am finding it somewhat overwhelming trying to make a decision as there seems to be many options. Not having a lot of knowledge about reloading at this point, I don't want to be making an unsafe choice. Or maybe it is not quite as critical as I am thinking it is? Any advice would be really appreciated.

Kind regards- TT
 
Anything in the BLC2 burn rate is a great place to be. Some folks really like CEF223. They are similiar. The 223 Rem is a very forgiving cartridge. Even IMR3031 is very good but doesn't meter nearly as well as ball powders.
 
For your AR15 a ball powder is easy and accurate to measure. BLC2, H335, 748, etc.

If your bolt gun is a precision rig, Varget is a good choice. I use RL15. If bolt gun is a plinker, go with ball powder.
 
Thanks for the speedy input everyone.

The bolt gun is a CZ 527, that I put a Leupold VX1 to try my hand at using optics for the first time. I believe my local shop only carries IMR, Varget and Hodgdon brand powders.
 
If you google "nosler 223 load data" you will be taken to nosler reloading site. Their info has been bang on for me. They give most accurate powder and most accurate charge for all powders tested. It was perfect in my 308 and 243. For my 223 I run varget. H335 and blc2 were good as well and are easy metering
 
I prefer Varget because of its consistent burn rate regardless of temperature. Performance in my Swiss Arms is MOA or better with 69gr SMK's over 25.9gr Varget. I use BLC(2) for 55gr plinking rounds but do find it is temperature sensitive.
 
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