243 Reduced load recipe and velocities

G

Ghys_T3LSS

CGN Regular
Rating - 100%
4   0   0
Location
Sherbrooke, QC
Hi,

I have prepared and shot a couple of reduced loads for my 243, and followed the Hodgdon’s recommendations (with H4895, around 60-65% of max load).

Here’s my question: do you have a way to estimate the velocity of a reduced load? Other than use a chrony?

The end goal here is to have my son shoot more, using my 243, and then have him shoot at game. I don’t need the exact velocity, I just want to «#guesstimate#» the bullet energy...

He’s probably going to shoot at small deer, short distance.

Thanks
 
Sight it in at 100yds, shoot at 200 holding Center and measure the drop. Go online or download a free app, input the bullet you used, and change the velocity until the drops match up with what you measured. Shooting at 300 or more will give you better data.
 
good idea Emerson, 300y + will tell the truth for speed. Zero at 100y and line up on a tall target downrange and fire a half dozen. Measure average bullet drop and play with the muzzle velocity on a ballistic program (JBM ballistics is good) until it jives with your result

If you post the load specs I can give you some estimates from Quickload ballistic software

barrel length
bullet
powder charge
 
Thanks.

You know what, I found online that the increase in speed vs increase in charge for the 4895 is pretty much linear. It also fits with your number. Based on the linearity from 31 to 37 grains, I was guessing around 2400 FPS.

It may be a little “limit” , but it gives 880 ftlb at the muzzle.

Thanks again
 
I have not looked that much for nice groups. Range was crowded and was on lunch time. I placed the target at 50 yds and shot 3 groups of each load in about 5 minutes.

Best was 25grains, and around 3/4’’ plus a flyer (making it 1’’). I guess I could shoot the same group at 100yds.

Loads were done using brass I didn’t measure, and charge maybe not weighted as nicely as I usually do...

I was more looking for the recoil than the precision.
I am pretty sure someone who would like to shoot a lot and on a tight budget could make nice groups.
 
If you want to start out really light try Trailboss powder. Can get down to 1500 fps and recoil is a push instead of a slap. Gives the youngster a chance to get accustomed to the noise and blast before you introduce more recoil.
 
I already use 4895 so I’ll stick with it. Thanks for the advice though.

My 10yo and 7yo sons shot the 25 grains loads and had fun.
I should mention that their first experience was with my heavy target rifle... it also helps reduce the recoil.

I’ll get them to shoot the Remington seven later.
 
Ghys_T3LSS said:
I already use 4895 so I’ll stick with it. Thanks for the advice though.

My 10yo and 7yo sons shot the 25 grains loads and had fun.
I should mention that their first experience was with my heavy target rifle... it also helps reduce the recoil.

I’ll get them to shoot the Remington seven later.
Click to expand...

Heavier rifles are good for beginners. The lightweight "youth" rifles are lighter to carry but more felt recoil. I started all 3 of my kids on a Rem 788 - 7mm-08 carbine with 18.5" bbl. 7-3/4 lb scoped so not a light rifle.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom