IMR 7977 and Hornady ELD-X

[Sigman0225]

I am new to THR and had a question about reloading using the Hornady 200gr ELD-X .308 in a 300 win mag using the new IMR 7977. Any comments would be appreciated. I am really starting fresh again since it has be about 25yrs since I last reloading. Thanks

 

[jmr40]

I haven't used that powder, but have experimented some with those bullets in my 300 WSM and H4350. A max load of that powder only gives 2800 fps, but I was putting 3 shots into .8" at 100 yards and under well 2" at 200 yards. The bullets seem easy to load for. I could get another 100-150 fps with some other powders, but think I'll leave well enough alone.

 

[Sigman0225]

Thanks

Thanks for the response. The IMR 7977 is supposed to be insensitive to temp. I live in MT and I want to be able to get consecutive results thru out the year. I usually load with IMR 4831 and had some luck with it.

 

[Gtscotty]

I guess I'm the opposite, i haven't used those bullets yet (I have some 178's sitting on the bench) but i have burned some IMR 7977, albiet in 270's. I was looking for temperature insensitivity as well, and worked up loads for 140's and 150's in a few different rifles. I found 7977 to give better velocities and at about the same level of accuracy with heavy bullets in my .270's as H4831. Given that you are looking to replace a 4831 with a less temp sensitive powder, I would expect 7977 to be a strong candidate.

 

[Sigman0225]

Thanks

I have Nos 180gr .308 Ballistic tips before I wanted to switch to Hornady. I have load data for 7977 and started to use it for hunting. I would rather have the 200gr ELD-X for bear. I am glad to hear you like the 7977. Thanks!