How much powder?

[lives4huntin]

I am loading 338 Win Mag for a guy. IMR 4350. Barnes 210 gr TSX boattail. Uaing the Barnes XBT data, the max load is 69.0 grains. His gunsmith said that it should be possible to load to 75 grains. Problem. 68 & 69 grains load and give a recommended C.O.L of 3.320. Without moving the seat, I cannot get the bullet to seat at 3.320 with 70 grains. Anybody have suggestions?

 

[mrawesome22-250]

Yes. Don't go over book values. You are loading for someone else and going over book maximums? This is very irresponsible to say the least.

 

[lives4huntin]

Quote from Barnes. "The reduced bearing surface of the Triple-Shock X-bullet may result in reduced pressures compared to the Barnes X-Bullet. To compensate for this and acheive maximum Velocity, it may be possible to exceed the maximum load listed by one or two grains, working up in half-grain increments." Watching for signs of excessive pressure, it shouldn't be a problem. Not planning on going to the extreme.

 

[CBS220]

Use a book minimum if loading for someone else.

The animal will never know the difference... people shouldn't get so hung up in max velocity unless they're shooting at extreme range.

 

[mrawesome22-250]

it may be possible to exceed the maximum load listed by one or two grains

75-69= 6

 

[lives4huntin]

But 70 is only one grain over. According to Barnes, this is acceptable. What about the seating? My 45-70 is a grain and a half below max, and it seats right to the powder. What is the relationship between the bullet and powder as far as space goes?

 

[mrawesome22-250]

I don't understand how you can't get the bullet to seat. Are you using a press with compound leverage? If so, you should be able to crush that powder till it bursts the case. I load 30-06Springfield with IMR4350 and a 58gr charge almost spills out the top. But careful inserting of the bullet into the seat die and presto, a full case compressed charge. Have you never heard of a compressed powder charge? Maybe I'm just not getting what it is you are trying to convey here.

BTW, sorry about the mix up with the 70gr charge. When I read it I thought you meant you were going for 75gr.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

lives4huntin,
Welcome to the forum...

I'm guessing you came here because there are a lot of knowledgeable reloaders who can help you. They have given you very good advice like you were looking for. Why not take that advice? It's one think if you exceed MAX values with your own ammo but a totally different case when you over-charge ammo someone else will use! Do you really want to be responsible for hurting someone? If his Gunsmith is so convinced a charge of 75gr will be fine let him reload that round and let him be the first to shoot it!!!

This is a very good rule among many good rules. When you develop a new load for a new rifle always start with a charge which is 10% below the MAX and slowly work your way up watching for any signs of pressure. Truly a rule to LIVE by.

Don't over-charge a round which someone else will fire. If he wants a hot load let him load it himself. (of course, only after you warn him of the danger)

 

[Shoney]

mistake Sorry!

 

[Shoney]

lives4huntin
There are a few things to do to get "more powder density" in your case without compression.

The brand of case you use makes a difference. Typically Winchester cases will receive more powder than other brands because the brass is made slightly thinner. Anywhere from 1 to 3 grains more can be added, depending on the powder and cartridge.

Another way to get more powder density is to drop it into the case from a greater height. I made a drop tube from an old ski pole so the height was over 4 feet. This will add 1/2 to 2 grains more powder depending on powder and cartridge.