May 4, 2010, 01:33 PM | #1 |
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Comparing load data
Okay, I got a little anxious ordering my reloading supplies, now I'm in a little bit of a pickle.
I'm reloading for my .223 and I bought Sierra 50 gr. JSP bullets and Ramshot X-terminator rifle powder. When I look up Ramshot load data I see three different types of bullets at 50 gr and none of them match my bullet type. When I look up the load data in my Lee reloading manual I see many more options, but it doesn't list anything for X-terminator powder. What would be the best option for me in order to safely reload using these supplies? |
May 4, 2010, 02:14 PM | #2 |
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If the two different 50 gr bullets are at least similar (both flat base or both boattails etc) then it would be safe to use the starting load for the other bullet. I wouldn't start with a mid range load unless the componants were exact match.
Use starting load, watch for pressure signs, work it up. Chrony if possible. Have fun |
May 4, 2010, 02:15 PM | #3 |
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What rifle are you loading for?
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May 4, 2010, 02:31 PM | #4 |
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Thanks for your tips so far. I'm loading for an AR-15 .223 20" barrel 1:8 twist
Is the powder type comparable to others, or do I NEED to have load data for that specific type? I see that Accurate 2520 has very similar volume characteristics, but I'm thinking substituting the load data is a no-no. Last edited by Cochise82; May 4, 2010 at 02:45 PM. |
May 4, 2010, 02:57 PM | #5 |
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You have to have load data for that powder and don't substitute powders. X-terminator is not just like any other powder so you need to get the load data for that powder. http://www.ramshot.com/powders/ Over on the left side it says load guide. It is a PDF file go to page 7 under .223 load data see if your bullet is listed there.
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May 4, 2010, 03:02 PM | #6 |
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Ramshot 1-800-497-1007
Call'em, I've never called a powder company that wasn't happy to give out load data if you ask. |
May 4, 2010, 03:05 PM | #7 |
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Oops...
Greetings Cochise82, and welcome aboard.
You've got a little problem. With your 1:8 twist, those Sierra 50's are on the light side. Your 1:8 barrel is intended to provide the optimum spin for heavier and slower .22 cal match bullets in the neighborhood of 65 to 70 gr. Even the standard M193 55 gr bullets are on the light side for a 1:8. The service loads are better suited to the standard 1:12 barrels. Sure, they'll work in your barrel (if you don't spin the jackets off 'em); but, why load something that's not going to give you optimum performance. You'll be disappointed if your reloading efforts result in key-holed targets. |
May 4, 2010, 03:14 PM | #8 |
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Trust me, I'll be happy if the bullets leave the gun in one piece
Thank you for the advice, I plan to get better at this pretty quick with helpful tips like these. |
May 4, 2010, 03:16 PM | #9 |
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Did the folks at Ramshot answer your questions?
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May 4, 2010, 03:44 PM | #10 |
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got the machine, gonna try again later.
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May 5, 2010, 01:20 PM | #11 |
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Still no word from Ramshot, left a message at the lab to call me back.
*edit* Ramshot got back to me and told me to use the load data for the B-tip bullet in 50gr. Seems simple enough, thanks for everyone's help Last edited by Cochise82; May 5, 2010 at 02:30 PM. |
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