First .270 Loads Results

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AF_Reloader

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Just tested out my first batch of reloads for my .270. Not bad, but I'm guessing there's something I'm going to have to improve (see pic). The skinny:

Firearm: Ruger M77 Mark II
Load: Full-Length Sized Federal Case
CCI 200 Primer
150gr Nosler Ballistic Tip BT
51.0gr H4831sc
Range: 50 yds

All seated to 3.380", +/- .002".

As you can see, there's about a 1.5" spread (with one flier), way too much at 50 yards. I used a Lead Sled (those things are like setting your gun in stone), so it's the reload, not the shakes on my end.

The two things I'm guessing I'll have to charge are bullet seat depth and powder charge. I seated the bullet using the method where you barely seat the bullet, black it with a lighter (or marker, when I'm using Ballistic Tips), and load into the rifle. The rifle will shove the bullet into the case, and then you take it out and measure it. Back off the length about half a turn on the die, so you'll have a round very close to the lands, but not right on them. Powder charge is from Pet Loads.

Run-out on the loaded rounds varied from .002" to .010". Not sure why, although I'm going to try seating them halfway, rotating the round, and then fully seating the bullet.

If there's something I'm missing, feel free to let me know! I finally drew a Murderer's Creek bull tag for up in Oregon for the first time in 8 years, and I'm going to get these rounds down pat before I go. Thanks!


Frank


 
not every powder load is accurate,far from it.Part of the 'fun' of reloading is experiementing with different charge weights,different powders,even different primers can make a difference.
Maximum charges are seldom the most accurate,but a never know without experimenting in the range shown for a particular powder.
 
Try increasing your powder charge 2gr in .5gr increments for 5 shots each, and see if your groups improve. If they do, then you'll know you are headed in the right direction.

Here's a link to hodgdon's site. Maximum load is 55.7gr
www.hodgdon.com


NCsmitty
 
Roger that.

Pet Loads listed 51.0gr as the most accurate (at least if I remember correctly), but I didn't figure that was universal.

I'm thinking I'll leave my seating depth alone, and mess with powder first, .5 grains at a time.
 
be careful using the lead sled - it can really, really throw groups off, especially on sporter weight rifles. you have got to be very attentive to how much and where you are putting pressure on the gun, and then repeat the process. i've had excellent luck w/ the lead sled, but now only use it on real kickers because it is such a nuisance to work w/ for guns that don't kick hard enough to bruise you in less than 5 or so shots. and slow to use...
 
I started off loading my 308 from the min load to the max in 1 grain increments. I recorded the data, shot 5 rounds of each, and found a pattern. So I started where my most accurate groups were (43 grains) and loaded 1 grain below and above that in .5 grain increments. (43, 43.5, 44, 42.5, and 42.0) Again, I recorded that data and found the ideal charge weight for the bullet and the gun. Now, I loaded 20 rounds (5 each) of varying bullet depths. (2.75", 2.80", 2.850", and 2.875") I know that my rifles chamber is only 2.895. Now, I get to go and shoot those 20 rounds and hopefully I will be able to record more data that will point to my rifles ideal load for that powder and bullet.

I just made this method up on the fly so I am sure it has flaws in it. But, the idea is to keep a record of all the loads for your rifle. Hope this helps some.
 
Make sure your scope isnt moving. That group looks like the scope may not be staying put in the rings or your bases are loose. I have had it happen to me before and it can be very frustrating.
 
Ditch the sled if you can and use sandbags. I've found 90% of accuracy is the BULLET used. Some barrels will not shoot certain bullets and or bullet weights well.
 
Some 270s just don't like 150s and some bullets like more of a jump to the lands.

I would find the best powder charge and then try adjusting the seating depth to fine tune.
 
The first place to start with any rifle that is "new" to you is not with powder, primer, bullet, or case. You start with the rifle itself.

Rugers used to be notorious for haveing the the lug screws over tightened at the factory. Simply backing the two screws off and just snugging them up is the first thing. Checking to make sure the barrel is free floating is the second.

Now work up your loads.
 
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