I am soon to start a new batch of shell...and I want some input on them from the guys that reload, if you have used this powder...and materials...I have all the specs...just need some input..
168gr Hornady BTHP MATCH
Hornady Brass...once fired
CCI primers..standard.
here is the kicker..
IMR...4064.
I am figuring about 42.5 grains should do it..
any input or opinions will be appreciated..
Oh I only have 1 lbs of it...
my next batch will be something different...
BMS
IMR4064 has a maximum suggested load of 45.0 for the 168-gr (Lyman's). 10% off that would be 40.5, so you are about in the middle. You shouldn't have any problems; however, you should use a chronograph to check your velocities and inspect your spent casings for indications of overpressure.
I would start there, or maybe slightly less, then load up some at .2 gr. intervals (maybe 10 to 15 rounds). Keep track of which load shot where on the paper, and when you find a group of three that are touching or almost touching, you've found your accuracy node. If you have a chronograph, take it too and write down the velocities. If the accuracy node is between loades 42.6 to 43.0, then on your next trip, load up more rounds between 42.6 and 43.0, only this time at .1 gr. intervals. Repeat the process and you should find the perfect load for that combo.
I haven't started these yet...but getting ready to. I have been doing alot of research and think that 42.5 is a good starting point...I have read on several links, including sierra's that 43.5 is the starting point...but on Hodgdon they say the bottom end is 41.5 to start...my Hornady manual doesn't even give it for the 168 gr BTHP...it does for the 150 and the 175...so I think it will be 42.5 to start...thanks for the input guys...
will see what happens..
BMS
That powder would not be my choice for an AR-10 platform.
Varget seems to be the powder of choice, and i have been using 43.5 grains of it under the Hornady 168 MATCH bullet.
I am working up loads this weekend using BENCHMARK, as it flows so much easier thru the powder measures. Will give an update and target picture when I get load development complete.
Reading this with interest. With regards to the suggestions about using the chronograph when working up loads. are you using the chronograph in this instance to get an optimal muzzle velocity or are you using it as an indirect measurement of pressures generated for the load. In either case, what velocities are you trying to obtain? Never thought I needed one of those, but now I wonder. Guess my method of loading it, shooting it and see if the barrel blows is not the most scientific.
Fox....you and I do it the same.....LOL :laugh: :dry:
I don't have one...I guess I am just trying to make sure they make it out the end of the barrel....My first ones...the 41.2 gr 4895 with 150 gr fmj didn't really do to bad...the next batch that I loaded...at 42.6 where all over the place...or was it 43.6 have to check...but they hit the mark at 100 yards....8" shoot n see target..so they will do the job if needed...and kill water jugs just fine....LOL :laugh:
BMS
Reading this with interest. With regards to the suggestions about using the chronograph when working up loads. are you using the chronograph in this instance to get an optimal muzzle velocity or are you using it as an indirect measurement of pressures generated for the load. In either case, what velocities are you trying to obtain? Never thought I needed one of those, but now I wonder. Guess my method of loading it, shooting it and see if the barrel blows is not the most scientific.
Personally I use a chronograph to help me make drop charts later on and confirm that I'm in the ballpark velocity range to keep the bullet stabalized to a determined distance that I want to shoot. It gives me a starting point to plug into the software. It does help in some regards to overpressure, because if you are getting some high velocities and seeing signs of overpressure, it can help you to judge how much to back off on your powder charge.
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