Anyone load down 223 loads with Blue Dot or Unique????

[Redneck with a 40]

You can safely download H4895 to 60% of the max listed charge, its the only rifle powder that you can safely do this with. A typical 25 grain charge behind a 55 grain bullet, could be reduced to 15 grains, safely. Although I don't think I'd go below 20 grains myself.

 

[Slamfire]

I called Alliant and asked about Blue Dot in the .223. I was aware of Seafire’s data, also aware of claims that people have blown up their rifles following Seafire’s data.

Alliant did not recommend Blue Dot in the .223. Basically, the pressure curve rises too fast for small changes in components and conditions.

 

[kingmt]

It is easy to lose contraction & put a second charge in the case. I have shoot thousands of rounds with powder close to BD burn rate. I have never had a pressure problem. I could reload the cases without even sizing.

I am set in my ways of the steps I use tho. I keep the case turned upside down until I charge it & as soon as I set the powder pan back on the scale I seat a bullet. I will not break my rhythm. My wife always seems to have some kind of major crisis when I start loading them but I don't let it deter me until I get to the stopping point.

 

[ssyoumans]

I downloaded for my 16" AR carefully following Seafire's data. Got my AR to mimic a 22 Magnum using 40gr and 50gr bullets around 2000 fps. No extraction, reasonably quiet, surprisingly accurate to 75 yards. Then I bought a 17 HMR, much less work and even more accurate.

I've used his data in 243 as well. Very good results there too just have to be extremely careful to avoid a double charge. He has a lot of data posted over on 24hourcampfire forum.

I stick with the middle loads, not too light, not to close to max. Safest bet would be to stick with H4895 but you will use more powder.