BalisticDave
Member
- Joined
- Nov 19, 2017
- Messages
- 7
Long time lurker, first time poster, I can usually find all the info I need in other threads. I started reloading .223 with H335 and was able to develop a load that is consistently capable of 1.5 MOA 5 shot groups at 100 yards. I have been trying to develop loads for Benchmark and ARComp as I am looking for a powder with more temperature stability. I just can not get the loads for either of these powders to come out accurately. My method is to shoot two rounds, and then let the barrel cool for a few minutes while I shoot one of my other guns.
Reloading Setup:
Single stage press
Lee Pacesetter dies
.003" Shoulder bump
All LC brass trimmed to 2.755 every time
Chamfered and debured
Crimped with Lee FCD
Gun:
S&W M&P 15 Sport II
3-9X Scope
Stock other than that
Loads:
Primers - CCI 450
Bullet- Hornady 55gr FMJBT
COL- 2.200
H335: 24.8 grains (sub 1.5 MOA 5 shot groups at 100 Yards)
Benchmark: 23.9, 24.2, 24.5, 24.8, 25.1, 25.4 (All over the place)
ARComp: 23.9, 24.2, 24.5, 24.8, 25.1, 25.4 (All over the place)
I have included photos of the targets that I used. The Benchmark is on the top and the AR is on the bottom, working from left to right the load increases in grains. I do not have any pics of my H335 loads as I painted over them. I shoot 4 rounds at each load in case I get a flier. I usually pick the tightest 3 and triangulate the POI.
I could just pick the benchmark 23.9 or 25.1, as they are decently accurate but thats not the OCW method. Is it possible that neither of these powders are good in my gun? Should I be changing less than .3 grains per load? Should I just stick with my H335 and not worry about the temperature stability? Maybe develop a summer and winter load with H335?
Reloading Setup:
Single stage press
Lee Pacesetter dies
.003" Shoulder bump
All LC brass trimmed to 2.755 every time
Chamfered and debured
Crimped with Lee FCD
Gun:
S&W M&P 15 Sport II
3-9X Scope
Stock other than that
Loads:
Primers - CCI 450
Bullet- Hornady 55gr FMJBT
COL- 2.200
H335: 24.8 grains (sub 1.5 MOA 5 shot groups at 100 Yards)
Benchmark: 23.9, 24.2, 24.5, 24.8, 25.1, 25.4 (All over the place)
ARComp: 23.9, 24.2, 24.5, 24.8, 25.1, 25.4 (All over the place)
I have included photos of the targets that I used. The Benchmark is on the top and the AR is on the bottom, working from left to right the load increases in grains. I do not have any pics of my H335 loads as I painted over them. I shoot 4 rounds at each load in case I get a flier. I usually pick the tightest 3 and triangulate the POI.
I could just pick the benchmark 23.9 or 25.1, as they are decently accurate but thats not the OCW method. Is it possible that neither of these powders are good in my gun? Should I be changing less than .3 grains per load? Should I just stick with my H335 and not worry about the temperature stability? Maybe develop a summer and winter load with H335?