H335 in the 9.3x57? - paging Ganderite and others...

Barnes_270

Barnes_270

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Hi all,

Reloading data for the 9.3x57 is hard to come by at best, as those of us loading for this cartridge know.

I have a large supply of WC845, a surplus powder that Higginsons used to sell. I'd love to be able to use it safely in the 9.3x57.

I know that it's basically a canister-grade H335 - back off 10%, and work up from there. I have it working well in my 9.3x62 - 50 grains under a NOE 285 cast bullet (gas checked, powder coated). That's because Hodgdon has a load for H335 for the 9.3x62 that I could work from.

Any thoughts on working up a load in 9.3x57 with the same bullet? Looking at burn rates would suggest it's possible, but I am hoping for more skilled insight than me eyeballing burn rate charts...

Note: this will be in a 96 mauser action, not the stronger 98.

Any input, gents? Thanks in advance.
 
If I had that rifle and a supply of 845 (which I have a lot of) I would not hesitate to use the powder.

Because it is not a 98 action, I would not use the usual 2 scoops of powder. I would work up, using the chrony to monitor pressure. Pressure = velocity.

You should back off 3 full grains from where you see some pressure.
 
Thanks, Ganderite. Much appreciated.

What do you think about using 3031 starting loads as a starting point?

Edited to add: I know how to look for pressure signs on brass, but using a chrony to watch pressure is not something I'm familiar with. Could you spell it out for the uninitiated? Thanks!
 
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your loading manual will show a max load and the velocity of that load. It takes pressure to get that velocity.

Let's say the book max velocity is 2300 fps. (I have no idea what max velocity is with your bullet in that caliber.) You want to take it easy with your 96 action, so 2200 would be the target velocity.

Work up to that velocity, watching for pressure. You would probably have no problem getting there.

Yes, 3031 data would be a place to start.
 
I used to use Accurate 2460 load tables, as per an equivalent chart from Higginson's.

H335 is a bit slower with a quickness rating of 101.

BLC2 has a quickness rating of 100

WC845 has a quickness right in the middle.

Just remember, this is surplus military powder, it doesn't have the same consistency between lots that the commercial grade powders we buy at the local gun shop have between lots.

Depending on which lot # you have, your powder could be closer to BLC2 or H335

Ganderite's method is fine.

When I was still using that powder, I started with BLC2 loads.

It's another one I thought I had lots of. To many buds knew I had it and I succumbed to their pleas. To bad they didn't get into the purchase when the powder was still available.
 
PM me your name and mailing address /postal code and I'll send you a page of data tomorrow.Not H335 mind you.
 
bearhunter said:
I used to use Accurate 2460 load tables, as per an equivalent chart from Higginson's.

H335 is a bit slower with a quickness rating of 101.

BLC2 has a quickness rating of 100

WC845 has a quickness right in the middle.

Just remember, this is surplus military powder, it doesn't have the same consistency between lots that the commercial grade powders we buy at the local gun shop have between lots.

Depending on which lot # you have, your powder could be closer to BLC2 or H335

Ganderite's method is fine.

When I was still using that powder, I started with BLC2 loads.

It's another one I thought I had lots of. To many buds knew I had it and I succumbed to their pleas. To bad they didn't get into the purchase when the powder was still available.
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Thanks for that. I was thankful to be able to get a very good deal on a large lot of this a few years back (on the EE). It's been great in 223, 308, 9.3x62, and more. I also have the advantage that the kegs I have are from the same lot.

mbogo3 said:
PM me your name and mailing address /postal code and I'll send you a page of data tomorrow.Not H335 mind you.
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Thank you! PM inbound.
 
The data I just sent you was made in a 46 sporter which is the same action as the 96 or 38 so should be safe for all intents and purposes.
 
mbogo3 said:
The data I just sent you was made in a 46 sporter which is the same action as the 96 or 38 so should be safe for all intents and purposes.
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Many thanks - I'll watch the mailbox.

pacobillie said:
After you are done, let us know how it turned out!
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Unfortunately my range is closed, so it won't be a quick project - but when it's done I'll report back for posterity. :)
 
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