Powder substitution

[sethg1981]

I am shooting .308 win with Nosler 150gr SP with BL-c(2)

This is a new set up, never loaded this combo. Well I cant find data for Nosler 150gr SP and BL-C(2). I did some burn rate math and found that the BL-C burn rate is in between IMR 4831 (max 52gr listed) and Vihtavouri N135 (max 45gr listed) so a max 48.5 gr would be a good set up. Granted thats max load I would probably start at 44 or 45 gr and work up to a good load.

Im still learning reloading so I would like to get some knowledgeable input before I start loading.

Am I over thinking it? Should I find and 150gr SP and BL-C2 and work with that data?

 

[merrill]

MODERN RELOADING by Richard Lee lists starting loads for 150gr. jacketed bullet at 44gr. and never exceed loads at 49.5gr. Hogdon's Reloading manual for 2008 list starting at 45gr. and never exceed loads at 48gr for Nosler 150gr. BT bullets. In both cases the powder is BL-C(2).I think you have your powder burn rates wrong. 4831 is a very slow burner; whereas, 4895 is much faster. Neither of my manuals call for 4831 for a 308W.

 

[sethg1981]

Thanks for the info. I have a good starting poing. I will test a few loads tomorrow. For the IMR 4831 the info is listed on the Nosler site. I didnt have my rates wrong, although its defiantly possible I put them in the post wrong. Either way thank you.

 

[4895]

http://data.hodgdon.com/cartridge_load.asp


You can often find load data through a powder manufacturer website like the one above. Hodgdon does have a listing for 308 Win. with BL-C(2) and 150 grain bullets. I would use the starting load data and proceed with caution from there. Good luck and Welcome to THR!


P.S. BL-C(2) is a temperature sensitive powder. The pressure will increase with temperature rise. If possible, don't leave the ammo in the sun at the range when shooting. Some guys actually pack their ammo in a lunch box style cooler for that reason. You may find a good load at 60 degrees F that kicks like a mule at 90 degrees F...or worse.

P.P.S. Please don't EVER do "burn rate math" EVER.