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- Thread starter j_m_ru
- Start date
littlehughey
Regular
- Location
- Central Alberta
Starting only 1gr below max for data with a different projectile is a bold move. I would start at least 5% below max and work up testing loads to find the most accurate.
Of the three powders that you say you have on hand, I would go with H322. H4350 is way too slow burning, and you will run out of case space way before you reach satisfactory velocities. IMR 4064 may be adequate, but somewhat on the slow side. You will however likely have to use compressed loads. H322 is tin the proper burn rate range, with other choices being H335 and IMR 3031. The Hoggdon website has data for all of these powders for a sierra bullet of comparable weight and construction. Start at min load and work up slowly. Back up if you run into pressure signs.
I am new to reloading, so take EVERYTHING I say as only opinion. My manual shows a projectile with the same weight with 4064 powder, but it is of different construction (not listed as SST)
So... not sure if this is of any value if the bullet doesn't match exactly?
So... not sure if this is of any value if the bullet doesn't match exactly?
Well - If I recall you also have some 322 powder, which is faster then 4064. Your selected bullet weight is light for calibre, so it goes that your powder can be slightly fast for calibre. The Hodgdon site shows data for both powders, so what you have to to is obvious -try and compare both. Remember - each rifle is unique, so other peoples experiences have limited relevance. I will say that one thing I have learned over the years is that rifles will typically "tune" to a particular bullet weight, and that usually becomes apparent "right out of the gate" Conversely, a particular rifle may shoot a given bullet poorly, no matter what tweaking is done. A 125 grain boat tail bullet would not be my first choice for accuracy in either 308 or 3006, due to the short bearing surface, and short COAL, but I would let the rifle prove me right or wrong.
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I am new to reloading, so take EVERYTHING I say as only opinion. My manual shows a projectile with the same weight with 4064 powder, but it is of different construction (not listed as SST)
So... not sure if this is of any value if the bullet doesn't match exactly?
To answer your question - yes it does make a difference. Each bullet has it own specs. Each time you substitute a component - start 10 % below max and work up.
I stick with what is published and tested (pressure data ) as a rule, but sometime, it is not possible with some new bullets or new brand of bullet. There is more than the weight - shape - will have a major effect - VLD - Hybrid - how much of it is in the case ect..
You are starting reloading - stay with published data - with the components used to develop that data.
With experience you might want to do otherwise depending on the type of shooting you are doing - hunting - PRS - Benchrest - using wildcat cartridge or hotrods one. There is a lot to learn in reloading. The goal should always be safe reloads at the end.
100%
The cost of picking your own load when theres no load data for it can be a lot higher than the missed opportunity of not shooting that free box of bullets. Sell the 125grs/powder and buy something that is indicated for your rifle IMO.
