Load data concern

[Timmypage16]

I am new to reloading and in fact I have not even reloaded a single round yet. Safety is my primary concern so I have been doing a lot of research. Actually, I have been studying how to reload more than I have been for my college courses.

My question is, how do you know how much charge to use if the specific bullet I have is not on the load data? e.g. I have 55 Grain FMJBT W/C Armscore that I bought in bulk and I want to use H335 for powder. This combination (55 gr. FMJBT + H335) is not in the load data on their site or in my Lyman 49th edition. Therefore, should I just assume that I should use the same starting point as any other 55 gr. bullet?

 

[ColtPythonElite]

That's what I've always done.

 

[sig220mw]

You can go to a website called stevespages.com or go to the hodgdon website where you will find hodgdon, winchester and imr loads.

But yes using other loads with the same weight bullet should be ok just be sure to pay particularly close attention for pressure signs.

 

[Timmypage16]

I forgot to mention this is for .223. I checked out hodgdon but they did not have a load data for fmjbt. That is why I am concerned about which combination to chose from on their load data.

 

[Steve C]

Use data for the same bullet weight. If you have several sources of data I use the more conservative loading as the start point. Reduce a maximum load by 10% for your start load OR use a listed start load if they've done the math for you. The reason you use a start load is to be safe where the components are not the same as the ones used in the manual. Work your load up to find the best shooting without any ipressure signs.

Quickest load work up. Get 55 pcs of brass and load 5 each at the start load with 10% reduction, 5 at 8%, 5 at 6% etc until you have the full spectrum loaded. Keep them segregated by load or mark them so you know what the load is. Take them to the range and starting with the lightest (start load) see how they shoot at paper. Make sure you let your rifle cool between strings. Check for pressure signs like flattened or pierced primers. Look for best grouping. If pressure signs appear then the previous is your max load, don't shoot any of the heavier loads. Pull overpressure ammo apart for components if such a condition is detected. Most accurate load should be your best load for your particular rifle. You may want to play +?- a percent to see if you can fine adjust the load.

 

[rfwobbly]

SteveC gave you excellent advice !

It's the weight of the jacketed bullet the load is pushing, not the shape of the bullet's tail! Obviously, one of the courses you are NOT studying is Physics!

Now get off this web site and back to the books!

 

[bloominonion]

I would recommend using boat tail load data if it is offered for the same weight bullet. But as stated, as long as the weight of the bullet is the same, it will work. Just always start at a lower load level and work your way up to ensure you don't cause issues due to variances in aerodynamics.

In other words, what they said.