Ok, I built this SPR type AR15. My intention was to build something super accurate. After a time of not getting the results that I wanted and not being willing to spend a buck a round for the really good ammo, I started to load my own.
I have a 16" 1:8 twist barrel. Since I started reloading, I've seen my groups shrink to sub MOA (when I do my part) with 77gr SMK over 24gr RE15 using Federal primers and LC brass. I load this ammo on my Dillon 550b doing two stages. I have a spare tool head with the sizing/decapping die and a second tool head that I use to do everything else. I'm using Lee dies and they've surprised me.
Now that I got a little taste of accuracy, my OCD has taken over. Before I wanted MOA, then sub MOA, now I want 1/2 MOA.
Any tips on making better ammo would be appreciated. What I'm mostly considering is a powder measure setup that might be more accurate. My Dillon does a pretty good job with the RE15, but sometimes it goes as much as 2/10 of a grain in either direction. It hasn't been a problem in terms of pressure, but I can't help but wonder if a couple tenths of a grain can make that much of a difference.
I've also been considering, or reconsidering the use of the Lee FCD. I've been using it to apply a very mild crimp. In fact, the mildest possible, according to the directions. I'm doing this because I made a dummy round and cycled it though my rifle. Every time I cycle it, the bullet moves out by a half a thousandth or so. Not much, I know, but movement none the less. I removed my expander and measured it and it came in at .222" which is what I believe it's supposed to be. Do I keep crimping or look for a way to get more neck tension?
Anyway, I'd appreciate any tips. I've already got some bolt gun guys looking at me in surprise with some of the groups I've shot at 100 yards with my little AR carbine. I want to see one hole and then start taking it out farther to see how well I can hold it together.
Thanks.
I have a 16" 1:8 twist barrel. Since I started reloading, I've seen my groups shrink to sub MOA (when I do my part) with 77gr SMK over 24gr RE15 using Federal primers and LC brass. I load this ammo on my Dillon 550b doing two stages. I have a spare tool head with the sizing/decapping die and a second tool head that I use to do everything else. I'm using Lee dies and they've surprised me.
Now that I got a little taste of accuracy, my OCD has taken over. Before I wanted MOA, then sub MOA, now I want 1/2 MOA.
Any tips on making better ammo would be appreciated. What I'm mostly considering is a powder measure setup that might be more accurate. My Dillon does a pretty good job with the RE15, but sometimes it goes as much as 2/10 of a grain in either direction. It hasn't been a problem in terms of pressure, but I can't help but wonder if a couple tenths of a grain can make that much of a difference.
I've also been considering, or reconsidering the use of the Lee FCD. I've been using it to apply a very mild crimp. In fact, the mildest possible, according to the directions. I'm doing this because I made a dummy round and cycled it though my rifle. Every time I cycle it, the bullet moves out by a half a thousandth or so. Not much, I know, but movement none the less. I removed my expander and measured it and it came in at .222" which is what I believe it's supposed to be. Do I keep crimping or look for a way to get more neck tension?
Anyway, I'd appreciate any tips. I've already got some bolt gun guys looking at me in surprise with some of the groups I've shot at 100 yards with my little AR carbine. I want to see one hole and then start taking it out farther to see how well I can hold it together.
Thanks.