AA2230 in .223 Rem for AR-15's

[gipperdog]

I've seen lots of various loading data out there for the .223 with tons of data but hardly anything regarding AA2230 powder. Anyone know why? I've been using the Lee Book (Modern Reloading, 2nd edition). I'm loading 25 gr under several bullets - 50 gr Hornady V-Max, 53 gr Sierra HP Match, & the 55 gr Hornady V-Max. Groups for the 55gr V-Max are the best - about .75" when I do my part. (All shot in a Bushmaster E2S Target Rifle with a 20" barrel.)
The powder meters almost like water it's so smooth. I'd probably get better results accuracy wise if I sorted my brass. So far I'm just using stuff I pick up at the range. But like I said earlier, even with mixed brass, I'm averaging 1-1 1/2" groups with my best running about .75 inches.
Not sure why, but most manuals I'm reading - Nosler, Speer, Sierra, just don't use that powder much.
Anyone else use it much & what have been your results with it?
Thanks - Rick

 

[CZ223]

Gipper

AA2230 is perfect for what you are using it for. A lot of guys use this in the 223 and they love it. I have no personal experience with it but it is on my list as one to try. My Lyman 47th edition shows that you are in the right range for your loads. In fact you are on the low side of thinggs for all of your loads including the 55s which, according to my manual, start at 24.4 and go up to 28.5. For more info you might want to go to Acurates website

http://www.accuratepowder.com/data/...loadsRifle/223 Remington pages 185 to 187.pdf

Other powders that you may want to try include BLC-2, H335 and TAC. All 3 of these work very well for me in both my savage rifle and my 2 Ars. They are ball powders and will meter just like "water".

 

[GRIZ22]

I use AA2230 in 223 and 308. I started using it in 1988 and have been pleased with results.

 

[flynlr]

I have had very good consistency using LC Brass 24.5gr of 2230
the 55gr hornady FMJ/BT and CCI 41 Primers. A very nice target load.
using both of my 16" Mforgerys.

 

[gipperdog]

Thanks for the info guys.

 

[ftierson]

Keep in mind that Accurate Arms has sold both AA2230 and AA2230-C, which could be confusing. Generally, the AA2230-C is slightly slower than AA2230, and AA has recommended that AA2460 data be used for AA2230-C. My experience (with the exception of one lot of AA-2230-C that burned exactly the same as AA2230) has been that AA is exactly right suggesting AA2460 data be used with the AA2230-C powder.

Both powders are excellent for the 5.56x45mm...

Forrest

 

[Mal H]

AA2230 is the only powder I use to reload for my EBR.

It feeds consistent weight loads and gives very good performance. One minor thing I don't like about it is the fireball. It seems to be flashier than other powders for that caliber, but I still like it for its other attributes (and because I bought a whole bunch of it).