thump_rrr
Member
Maximum is not a one size fits all answer.Is there something that isn't understood about the meaning of the word MAXIMUM??
Stu
When manufacturer X says 14.8gr maximum load it is for that lot of powder with that specific primer in that particular volume of case in that particular chamber and that particular bullet loaded to that particular length.
I am a member on another precision rifle forum where people share a lot of load data with the warning that their loads are over maximum published loads.
Some of their loads are 4 full grains over maximum in a .308!!!
When I was a novice reloader I heeded the MAXIMUM LOAD warnings.
Once I gained experience and a chronograph I began to work outside that maximum load envelope. My very best .308 load in one of my precision rifles is nearly 2 full grains over maximum. It shows no signs of overpressure, no heavy bolt lift, no hard extraction, no ejector marks, no loose primer pockets.
My Lapua brass is on its 19th loading and the primer pockets are still good. Of course I anneal my brass regularly. My brass will be retired later this spring once I rebarrel the rifle.