Contender Question

[Kevan]

Does anyone out there know anything about a Contender chambering called the 7mm x 444 Ackley Improved ?
Mike Bellm's web site lists a 7mm Bellm chambering, but makes no mention of an Ackley Improved.
If anyone could provide some info, I'd greatly appreciate.
Cheers...Kevan

 

[dan belisle]

The Ackley Improved simply means the case will have a 40 degree shoulder and very little taper. Many cartridges have been labeled "Ackley Improved" based on these things, without PO ever having worked on them. If you can get a cartridge data drawing from somewhere and compare the two, you should be able to figure out what's what. RCBS will have the data on the Bellm I would think, not sure who would have the other, although Larry Kelly (of Magnaport fame) did a whole series of Contender cartridges based on the 444, maybe look there. - dan

 

[Kevan]

Thanks Dan, talked to Mike Bellm himself this a.m., and he advised me to stay away from the gun, because the chambering is a little too much pressurewise for the action, and I'd likely have problems, if the previous owner hasn't already.....nice to know these things before buying eh ?
Cheers...Kevan

 

[nrut]

Kevan...I bought a .243 Low Wall a few months ago from a fellow that has a 7x444 A.I. barrel....if you want contact info let me know....I would check with the orignal maker of the barrel (name should be on barrel) and "not take Bellms word".... also check out the following forum and ask questions there... http://specialtypistols.infopop.cc/eve

Dan I believe you are talking about JD Jones of SSK developing his "Hand Cannon" line off the 444 case and the .225 Win case for the smaller cals.