different powder for .223

[alsaqr]

I like IMR3031. If I didn't have any, I'd buy some.

So do i. Been using IMR 3031 with 55 grain and under bullets since the 1960s. Was out of .222/.223 powder and tried 3031. My best groups are with that powder.

 

[Ironicaintit]

So do i. Been using IMR 3031 with 55 grain and under bullets since the 1960s. Was out of .222/.223 powder and tried 3031. My best groups are with that powder.

Actually my best groups with a 55gr are with IMR 4198.... But 3031 is nearly as good, and my AR seems happiest with it. So it's typically what I use.

Plus, I love it for 30-30 and some 308 and 30-06.

If all I had were an AR, I'd have 3031....if I had everything but an AR, I'd have 3031.

 

[entropy]

I've used IMR 3031, IMR 4064, Varget, AA2230, BL-C(2), and PowerPro Varmint in .223, all with good accuracy from an NEF, (As good as that can get), A Savage Axis, and a DPMS Sportical.

 

[DukeConnor]

I can. H335 gets me higher velocity than cfe223 with 55gr fmj. Dunno for heavier bullets.

I'd try h335

Alas, I am but a poor man without a chrono. As far as accuracy and feel I can't tell the differnce.

 

[Tony k]

Alas, I am but a poor man without a chrono. As far as accuracy and feel I can't tell the differnce.

I was in the same boat until a few weeks ago.

A friend sold me a shooting Chrony manufactured in 1998 for $20. It works just fine, and now I'm able verify a lot of stuff I suspected, such as CFE 223 being slower than average with 55gr

 

[someguy2800]

I've never had any luck with Tac. I love benchmark buts it's gotten too expensive. AA2015 is one of my new favorites. Works great with all bullet weights.

 

[Axis II]

I've never had any luck with Tac. I love benchmark buts it's gotten too expensive. AA2015 is one of my new favorites. Works great with all bullet weights.

benchmark around here actually came down in price. was $30+ now around $27.

 

[MikeInOr]

I try to minimize the number of different powders I have. When I find a powder that works well I stick with it.

I use AA2230 for .223. It works well, I get really nice tight groups so I have never tried any other powder. I used to load my larger rifle cases with 4064 (6.5 x 55, .308, 30-06 and 8 x 57) but switched to Varget and it works better.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I try to minimize the number of different powders I have. When I find a powder that works well I stick with it.

I use AA2230 for .223. It works well, I get really nice tight groups so I have never tried any other powder. I used to load my larger rifle cases with 4064 (6.5 x 55, .308, 30-06 and 8 x 57) but switched to Varget and it works better.

While I agree with you and I really try to do that I fail miserably. I have been known to buy a powder for only one cartridge even though two others I already have would load that cartridge.

I have done the same with handgun ammo. I have a powder specifically for the .38 Special +P with one weight bullet and another powder for a different weight bullet. I'm not saying it's necessary or even smart, it just is with me!

 

[fotheringill]

Hmmm no love for RL15?

The only 2 powders I've tried are Varget & RL15.
Both work so well, I haven't found a need to stray.

55gr BT bullets, AR15A1 20" barrel, 1in9 twist & AR4 Carbine 16" barrel, also 1in9 twist.

It is a craps shoot as to which will perform best for you.

I have a Savage F/TR in 223 with a 1:7 twist and 30" barrel and shoot either 73 gr or 80 grain Bergers. I found Varget the best, RL15 and H335 and Benchmark not so good. CFE223 shows promise and so does Alliant AR-Comp. If you have the spare change, try a bottle of whatever else is available and test away.

Good luck.

 

[Dudedog]

There is an adventure in every bottle, never know until you try.
I tend to stick with what I know works but new powders can be fun.
Some I have really liked, some were about the same as I was using and some didn't work as well for me.

 

[jhansman]

Another vote for H322. For target work, it can't be beat. In my Saiga, I use H355 or H4198.