? fps on 223 rem

[raceman30]

I have been trying to reload some good varmit loads, but am having some problems with fine tuning for speed, on my load data sheet it specifies 50 grain-H4895, 25 start grains, min oal 2.210 = 3468fps.
all I can muster out of that load is 3098fps, am I setting the chrono to far from the muzzle? I set it up 6 feet in front. Even the factory ammo that states 3600fps, all I get is around 3300. Any help is greatly appreciated. Any other load recomendations is welcome too. Thanks Gary

[turtle71]

Raceman,

First off the start grains is probably about 10% below max grains. The velocity is normally measured using max grains. Don' t just try loading using max grains or adding 10% to the start grains though. Work up gradually checking for signs of pressure as you go.

Second most velocities are based on a single shot with 24" barrel. If you have a semi auto or a shorter barrel that will loose you some speed.

[Vapodog]

if you can actually get 3,300' /sec from your .223 with 50 grain bullets and a 22" barrel you' re doing well.

The 3,600' /sec figure seems a trifle exaggerated to me.

[stubblejumper]

3300fps is a pretty normal velocity for the .223 with that length barrel.

[ballistic64]

If you want a devistating varmint load and more speed,go to a 40 gr. Vmax or Ballistictip you should easily reach 3600+.Ive used them in a few 223 varmint rifles on prarie dogs and the results are spectacular!

[marmax]

I have never seen a 223 Rem. with a 50gr. bullet do much better than 3300fps safely. I always cross reference two or more manuels to check for new loads. If they don' t have the exact data for the load you want sometimes it is close enough to let you know if one of the manuels have bad data which happens from time to time. If you want that kind of performance you will need to use a 22-250 or possible convert your rifle to a 223 Ackley Improved. That doesn' t cost too much and you have the benifit of being able to use factory or Ackley improved loads.

[James B]

I am real happy with 3100 fps with a 55 grain bullet in my 22 inch barrel. I could get more but have no reason to. The Hornady manual shows up to 3700 with the 40 grainer. They however are testing with a 26 in barrel.

[halcon]

Most manuals state what the round was tested in but that doesn' t say every gun will do the same thing . The fps seconds given are a reference not what every gun in that caliber and barrel length should do . The second thing is are you sure your chronograph is set correctly and have you compared it to another if it is so far off .