The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post

Shoney · October 2, 2008, 10:28 PM

I would not advocate load development in the rain and wind. Either wait for the rain and wind to stop, or come back another day.

Having hunted in Montana ALL my life, I have found that loads developed at 60 degress will shoot very well at 20 degrees with little noticeable difference. The difference comes when shooting at zero and sub-zero temps. And even the temperature stable Hodgdon powders react differently at 30-50 below.

When I know that I will be hunting in sub zero weather, I try to refine my loads at around 20 degrees. I still find differences at 30-50 below. When you get into the sub-zero weather, be sure to sight in at 100, 200, & 300 yards so you know the score.

Although you should ideally develop your loads at or near the temperatures you will be hunting in, that is not always practical. Get as close as possible and don't look back!

Good Shooting!

October 2, 2008, 10:28 PM	#7
Shoney Senior Member Join Date: February 21, 2002 Location: Transplanted from Montana Posts: 2,311	I would not advocate load development in the rain and wind. Either wait for the rain and wind to stop, or come back another day. Having hunted in Montana ALL my life, I have found that loads developed at 60 degress will shoot very well at 20 degrees with little noticeable difference. The difference comes when shooting at zero and sub-zero temps. And even the temperature stable Hodgdon powders react differently at 30-50 below. When I know that I will be hunting in sub zero weather, I try to refine my loads at around 20 degrees. I still find differences at 30-50 below. When you get into the sub-zero weather, be sure to sight in at 100, 200, & 300 yards so you know the score. Although you should ideally develop your loads at or near the temperatures you will be hunting in, that is not always practical. Get as close as possible and don't look back! Good Shooting!