Another noob question

thebuckhunter

thebuckhunter

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I'm having a small problem (I think). I'm trying to build up loads for my .223 Savage. I started the loads @ 24.9 gr. of Varget behind a 68gr Hornady BTHP match bullet and using CCI small rifle primers moving up by .2 gr of Varget at a time. My last loads were 25.5 gr and I noticed that while seating the bullets (length of cartrige is 2.26"), I was compressing the powder. Am I doing something wrong? I have no signs of high pressure @ the 25.5gr level (easy extraction, no dented or bulging primers or cases, etc... ) and would like to try to get to 26 gr of Varget behind the same pill (if it's safe). Should I try another powder or is compressing the load safe? Thanks in advance,

-Jason
 
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compressing is ok, as long as the bullets seating depth is consistent

try 4895 maybe, its a bit faster burning than Varget
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Both of my load data's list Varget as a powder on a 70gr bullet with a max load of 26gr. Also, a buddy of mine reloads the same ammo and uses 26gr of varget behind a 69 gr MatchKing. Load has proven safe for more than 500 rounds out of his gun. All of our components are the same except for the gun and bullet (mine is a Hornady 68gr BTHP Match). That is why I am bringing up the loads by .2gr instead of .5gr and really going over each casing after it's been fired.I'm even using a fluoresent(sp) crayon and checking for cracks in the brass. He had explained the process but never mentioned anything about this being a compressed load and he's away this week.

-Jason
 
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Another little trick you can use with extruded powders is to gently tap the case on your bench once you charge it with powder. It will help the powder settle in the case and allow a little more room internally.
 
A compressed load is nothing to worry about. Lots of powders in lots of cartridges are compressed. However, go back and work up the load for your rifle. That your buddy's load uses the same components doesn't matter.
 
Thanks for the replies. Sunray, I did starting loads of 24.9gr, then 25.1gr, then 25.3gr, then 25.5gr. I only felt the compression on the 25.5. I shot these loads and inspected each case thoroughly. I was only wondering about the compression itself. At 200m there was little change in elevation of the first 4 batches. Each batch fired approx. .5" above the last. All groupings were under 2" with the last batch (25.5 gr) being under 1.5". The higher the velocity/pressure, the tighter the groups were getting. I'm hoping to be able to get at leats 1/2 MOA at or near the maximum load. Thanks again guys.

-Jason
 
I have used 60 grains of IMR 4350 in several 30-06 rifles with 165 Partitions without any problems. No pressure signs, good accuracy and long brass life. It usually chronys between 2875 and 2975, depending on barrel length and individual firearms nuances. I have changed to Vihtavuori N160 in recent years. A bit smaller grained [easier to measure]and just a smidgeon slower burning. Compressed loads are a way of life in many cases. The 7x57 and 8x57 come to mind, as does the 300 Savage and 308 Winchester. any powder that is on the slow side ends up compressed in these cases. No harm done, as long as the load is worked up safely. Many compressed loads are marvellously consistent. Regards, Eagleye.
 
Compressed loads,as several others here have said,are okay.Another trick you might try is a drop tube.It could gain you possibly one grain of powder less compression without altering pressures.
 
What do you mean by a drop tube shotgunjoe? I'm totally lost here...
I loaded up my last 2 batches for my .223. The first was 25.8gr and the last one was 26gr. Both compressed and I had consistant OAL. I'll find out how they perform on Saturday.

-Jason
 
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