Better than expected results.

Gundigest · 08-15-2005, 09:02 AM

I loaded up some 40gr Siarras at about 2500-2600fps for myRuger.223 with 12.6gr of blue dot and my dads Contender .223 with 13gr of blue dot. My dad wanted some loads that would be closer to a 17HMR for shooting squarles at 100 yards. I shot a .5" group with my rifle and a .35" group with my dads at 100 yards. I was very happy with both of these groups however I was more supprised by my 300 WSM. I loaded up some 150gr Barnes XLCs at about 3300 fps and since I was going to the range I decided to load up some 110gr Hornady SPs at about 3600 fps. I was expecting 3-4" groups at 100 yards with the 110s, but my M77 didn't let me down. I shot a 1.15" group at 100 yards. I could not belive it. It gives me somemore confidence inbuying a box of the 130gr TSX for antilope. The 150gr XLCs I shot had 2 touching and the third was 1.5" away(probably me).

Gundigest · 08-15-2005, 09:04 AM

Here is the picture of the 150gr Barnes XLCs (3300 fps, 1.5" group) and the 110gr Hornady SPs (3600 fps, 1.15" group)

Roskoe · 08-15-2005, 03:26 PM

Those reduced power .223 loads are interesting . . . you apparently have no need for a .22 Hornet

One word of caution, though - Blue Dot is one of those powders that I have seen even very experienced reloaders have problems with sooner or later. Sudden and unexpected high pressures are not a pleasant surprise.

Gundigest · 08-15-2005, 07:41 PM

My brother had a 22 hornet but he has a .223 now also. There is also a Re 7 reduced load at about 2700 fps. I probably won't use the reduced loads, but I figured since I was loading up some test loads I would see how my rifle liked them. I don't know why my dad decided heneeded reduced loads to shoot at squarles.

HighDesertWolf · 08-24-2005, 12:17 PM

i use a reduced load in my .223 pushing a 55 grain pill around 2600 fps using hodgdon H4895 powder,i probably can even go a bit lower in velocity butany lowerthey don't cycle the action reliably. ive seen data using pistol powder in rifle cartridges to get reduced velocity, just cant push myself to do that so i stay with H4895 for all my reduced loads.

Doe Dumper · 08-26-2005, 02:35 PM

Thats interesting...that 223 seems to be a versatile little caliber.

johnch · 08-27-2005, 10:53 PM

I have been loading Blue Dot for a few years in several rifle cart.
I to have HEARD of problems , but I have never seen any .
The guys that do have problems try to get top speed .
I have been told if you stick to the reduced loads like listed at http://www.savageshooters.com/Reloading/223_LoadData.html you will have no problems .
Hope the link works .

Johnch