25-06 AI loads

[Redpoints]

Just got a new rifle in this caliber. Loaded to the maximum according to my reloading manual, the case still has lots and lots of room in it. Compared to my .308 which has mostly compressed powder at max load!

Is this just an example of an "inefficient" case design, or are the stated maximum charge amounts just low and can actually be much higher?

Right now, I am experimenting with about 51 gr of IMR 4064, as well as others near max, but as I said, there is probably 10 more grains or room in the loaded case.

 

[CyaN1de]

Look at a slower powder, this will allow more powder in the case making the load density higher.

Check these sites:

http://data.hodgdon.com/main_menu.asp
http://www.reloadersnest.com/frontpage.asp?CaliberID=293

 

[Wookie316]

Mine loved RL19 & 85gr Noslers when I had it. It was a 25" RKS gain twist. Around 3800 FPS if I remember correct?

 

[sunray]

"...case still has..." Some powders take up more space than others. Extruded powders tend to do so. Ball powders don't. Nothing to worry about any more than with a compressed load. Follow your manual religiously.

 

[Johnny G1]

Mine is 58 gr. 4831 Hods, pretty hot load. Slower powder is the way to go.

 

[Styled]

I'm sure a few other 25-06AI owners will chime in soon as well.

I have had good luck with Reloader 22 and IMR 7828SSC in the velocity department with 115gr bullets, and Reloader 22 has the edge on accuracy. I use Lapua 30-06 brass necked down, fire formed, and neck turned, with CCI BR2 primers. My rifle is a Cooper Excalibur with 26 inch barrel.

I use Quick Load for my reloading guide. With accurate entry of case measurements, bullet measurements, etc., it pops out a list of estimated powders with load weights, velocity, and pressure, and percent of powder to full case. When watching for pressure signs, and velocity over a chrony I am quite certain Quick Loads predictions are close. IMR 4064 although great for the .308 win, seems like it would be marginal in most weight classes of bullets for the 25-06AI.

Tell us some more about the rifle you have, including barrel length?

What components are you using with your 25-06AI?

If you let us know what you have or what your interested in shooting bullet weight wise we can provide our opinions on how you can get the most out of your 25-06AI.