Info reloading 204 Ruger

Lee's "Modern Reloading" 2nd edition has the 204 Ruger listed, with a large number of differing powders and 26, 32, 35, 39 40 and 50 grain jacketed bullet load information.

I use H335 and Varget with equal success. I find the Ruger easy to reload. If I had an issue, it would be handling the tiny projectiles with old fingers.

Almost any powder that works well for the 223

will work well in the 204. I don't have my exact reloading info at hand right now but I have had great success with Tac, BLC-2 and, H335. All of these go through a powder measure like water and measure very consistently.

Also

if you are in need of a new manual, I would recommend the newest Lyman manual.

Yes, many powders used with 223 Remington can be used in the 204 Ruger.

Hodgdon's 2013 Reloading magazine has good info as well as Hodgdon's web site.

http://hodgdon.com/basic-manual-inquiry.html

Presently, i have been using CFE223 in the 204 Ruger.

Also, H4895 and Accurate 2230.

All three work well in my bolt rifle and dreaded 11 pound, semi-auto, 24" long barrel sporting rifle.

Check the manufacturers for reliable data.

rayatphonix said:

I use H335 and Varget with equal success. I find the Ruger easy to reload. If I had an issue, it would be handling the tiny projectiles with old fingers.

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Like Rayatphonix said, the size of the bullet can be a problem for old fat stiff fingers. When I first started loading for this round, my buddy told me to get some RCBS competition dies. Yes, they are expensive but so much easier to reload this small bullet. They were well worth the money and I would recommend them to anyone who reloads for the 204 Ruger. Good Luck

Lube the inside of the necks if it's not something you usually do. I had some issues early on with the expander coming out so hard it was pulling up the shoulders a bit, making the rounds a little hard to chamber. And use primers with a heavier cup, I use CCI 450 magnums mostly. It's a high pressure round and with soft primers I've seen cratering and other issues even at starting loads.

My favorite loads use BL-C(2), but most .223 powders will work well with the .204. Those little bullets can be a challenge, glad I have the Hornady dies with the little holding sleeve.