Load suggestions for Vanguard in.243

[redneck2]

friend has one that’s showed far less than stellar accuracy with higher end factory ammo. As in 2 1/2 to 3” groups. He’s going to load some, but I’m trying to help him shorten the curve.

Any ideas appreciated

 

[Condor]

I have had very good results with 85g Sierra HP above H4895 (at a number of different charge weights; I use the Hornady load data); i have also had good results with other 80-85g bullets.

With heavier bullets I’ve had best results with IMR 4831.

Good luck!

 

[Bottom Gun]

The 1960 vintage .243 Sako L579 I recently bought has shot most bullets I've tried very well. (85 gr Speer BTSP, 85 gr Nosler Partition, 95 gr Fusion) I think the twist is 1/10.
I've found the powder selection makes more of a difference in accuracy in this rifle than bullets do. I'm getting consistent sub MOA accuracy using H4831SC, IMR4350 and H335 with the above-mentioned bullets, even the Partitions.
This rifle does not shoot loads well that use Varget powder.
Another thought - It might pay to check rings and bases too.
Good luck in your quest.

 

[horsey300]

friend has one that’s showed far less than stellar accuracy with higher end factory ammo. As in 2 1/2 to 3” groups. He’s going to load some, but I’m trying to help him shorten the curve.

Any ideas appreciated

Any flat based bullet, or the sierra hpbt. You're fighting a 10 twist, powder? Imr4451, h4831sc, h1000, what's he wanna shoot?

 

[redneck2]

Don’t know that he has determined anything yet. He was pretty bummed that it shot so poorly with what should be good ammo.

I really appreciate all the input. Thx

 

[stillquietvoice]

I've had good results with several powders in the 243 win, but have used longer than saami spec lengths. I've posted in other threads that my current load length is 2.67" with sie 100 gr and hornandy 100 gr interlock spbt. Worked up with imr 4350, h4350, and ramshot hunter. Your friends twist rate and throat will determine the best bullet weight. Faster twists likey m11 savage 1:9.125 usually like longer heavier bullets. Hope this helps.

 

[Aletheia]

I use IMR4350 for the two I load for with 95 and 100 grain deer hunting bullets.

 

[2ndtimer]

I have had excellent results with Ramshot Big Game and 70 gr Speer TNT or Nosler 70 gr Tipped Varmageddons for varmints and coyotes. I used a 90 gr Speer Deep Curl (discontinued by manufacturer) and Reloder17 on a nice Montana antelope buck last year. Will see how the Nosler 90 gr Ballistic Tip works when I use up my supply of Deep Curls.