Centurian22
Member
I finally got out to the range to test my first reload work ups for my .308 and .32S&W Long. The .32 was mostly just a function and basic accuracy test that went well. The focus of my full day at the range was the .308's.
I would appreciate some help in interpreting my .308 load development. I think I know where to go but want input from others who have more experience than I do. These are 168gr Sierra Matchking HPBT loaded in once fired federal cases with CCI LR primers and the listed charge weights of IMR 4895 fired from a savage axis on bag rests. The reason for the steps changing from .9 to .5 is I was following the OCW method. I was going to have an 8th step at 45.6 but the first round I fired stuck the case hard (couldnt pull the bolt out, had to tap lightly with a wooden block to remove it). No significant pressure signs at 46.1gr. I obtained my charge ranges from a combination of Sierra, Hodgdon and Lyman with Hodgdon being the highest allowable charge.
I think that I have a 'node' around 44.1gr based on the OCW, and could possibly do some more testing between 42.7 and 44.1gr based on the ladder test. This also matches up with the 43.6 that is listed as a likely OCW load for 168gr SMK with IMR4895. I have also seen a lot of people quote 41.5gr. I have 4 of those loaded up but ran out of daylight to try them.
After fine tuning these I'll be seeing if the charges will carry over to my 165gr Sierra gamekings, then doing work ups for 147fmj, 150sgk, and 150 rem bronze points.
Thanks for any info you can provide.
OCW target with charges. The 42.7, 44.1, and 45.1 all have called fliers.
Ladder test.
'Map' of ladder test.
I would appreciate some help in interpreting my .308 load development. I think I know where to go but want input from others who have more experience than I do. These are 168gr Sierra Matchking HPBT loaded in once fired federal cases with CCI LR primers and the listed charge weights of IMR 4895 fired from a savage axis on bag rests. The reason for the steps changing from .9 to .5 is I was following the OCW method. I was going to have an 8th step at 45.6 but the first round I fired stuck the case hard (couldnt pull the bolt out, had to tap lightly with a wooden block to remove it). No significant pressure signs at 46.1gr. I obtained my charge ranges from a combination of Sierra, Hodgdon and Lyman with Hodgdon being the highest allowable charge.
I think that I have a 'node' around 44.1gr based on the OCW, and could possibly do some more testing between 42.7 and 44.1gr based on the ladder test. This also matches up with the 43.6 that is listed as a likely OCW load for 168gr SMK with IMR4895. I have also seen a lot of people quote 41.5gr. I have 4 of those loaded up but ran out of daylight to try them.
After fine tuning these I'll be seeing if the charges will carry over to my 165gr Sierra gamekings, then doing work ups for 147fmj, 150sgk, and 150 rem bronze points.
Thanks for any info you can provide.
OCW target with charges. The 42.7, 44.1, and 45.1 all have called fliers.
Ladder test.
'Map' of ladder test.