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Ackley Improved User · February 19, 2005, 05:11 AM

Bullet compressibility (stiffness/hardness) and bearing surface are very important in determining pressure. It takes more pressure to push a stiff bullet with a relatively large bearing surface down the barrel - and, it is important, that these two factors vary with bullet design.

For example, I've found that Nosler BT bullets tend to be "softer" than Swift Scirroccos - that is, bullet weight being equal. The same powder charge with 180 gr. Scirrocco will create more pressure (and velocity) than when using the 180 gr. Nosler BT. This becomes very important if you're loading HOT - hence, be careful. The Scirrocco has a thicker jacket.

February 19, 2005, 05:11 AM	#4
Ackley Improved User Member Join Date: January 31, 2005 Posts: 56	Bullet construction is VERY important. Bullet compressibility (stiffness/hardness) and bearing surface are very important in determining pressure. It takes more pressure to push a stiff bullet with a relatively large bearing surface down the barrel - and, it is important, that these two factors vary with bullet design. For example, I've found that Nosler BT bullets tend to be "softer" than Swift Scirroccos - that is, bullet weight being equal. The same powder charge with 180 gr. Scirrocco will create more pressure (and velocity) than when using the 180 gr. Nosler BT. This becomes very important if you're loading HOT - hence, be careful. The Scirrocco has a thicker jacket.