Update,
So since he was using Hornady projectiles we used my Hornady manual, saw that the loads he had made before were over the max published by Hornady (not over max from the other books he had). We also used the Hornady service rifle data since it would be a better place to start loading for a semi auto.
First loads were about 2400fps, bumped up the powder a little and found a couple decent but not spectacular groups around 2500fps with no pressure signs and the rifle cycled them great. 38gr looked promising but more testing will be needed to see how consistent it is.
More evidence to the guys out there that think reloading manuals are optional. I mostly shoot Hornady and Nosler bullets so I buy those manuals to use (I have a couple others as well). I still compare to other load data that's available but the bullet manufacturer knows their own bullets and how they make pressure.
For the cost of a pound of powder it's a valuable tool for reloading that really should not be overlooked as a necessity that's just as important as the rest of your quality tools.
Ended up having a good afternoon of shooting with no unexpected surprises from the rifle or loads. Another afternoon of loading and shooting will have the rifle/loads dialed in and working well together.
So since he was using Hornady projectiles we used my Hornady manual, saw that the loads he had made before were over the max published by Hornady (not over max from the other books he had). We also used the Hornady service rifle data since it would be a better place to start loading for a semi auto.
First loads were about 2400fps, bumped up the powder a little and found a couple decent but not spectacular groups around 2500fps with no pressure signs and the rifle cycled them great. 38gr looked promising but more testing will be needed to see how consistent it is.
More evidence to the guys out there that think reloading manuals are optional. I mostly shoot Hornady and Nosler bullets so I buy those manuals to use (I have a couple others as well). I still compare to other load data that's available but the bullet manufacturer knows their own bullets and how they make pressure.
For the cost of a pound of powder it's a valuable tool for reloading that really should not be overlooked as a necessity that's just as important as the rest of your quality tools.
Ended up having a good afternoon of shooting with no unexpected surprises from the rifle or loads. Another afternoon of loading and shooting will have the rifle/loads dialed in and working well together.
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