Hi guys, I was googling "PSL handloads" and I see where Elmer Fudd was quoting me on some of my experiences with the PSL, I cant believe I havent registered at THR before so I just did.
I`ve been reading the thread and just wanted to throw some of my experience into the fire.
I have a TN guns PSL, the import version, not the kit built. It is probably the most enjoyable rifle I have ever owned.I have shot it with 7N1 sniper ammo, and just about every available type of light ball surplus and I have done a bit of experimenting with handloads (soon to be using .311" 175gr. sierra matchkings)- I know we are only supposed to use 148/155 gr bullets with the PSL but there is a modification we can make that will allow the rifle to safely shoot heavy ball without damage to the rifle (more about that later)
The best accuracy I have acheived from my rifle was something in the neighborhood of 1.5moa. Attached are pictures from several range trips and the targets, The most accurate load yet has been the 7N1 but my handloads are getting close, I need to get a .311" expander for my resizing die, the hornady dies use a .308" expander and the bullets are not seating exactly concentric with the bore axis, once I get the .311" expander I am going to show what this rifle will do!
First, lets meet the family: Papa Mama and baby bear.
My humble Romanian collection, I have other AK`s but I like having this trio.
My ugly mug and my beautiful PSL, the three shots in the circle at the top left of the target were fired at 200 yards group was about 2", I was shooting at the miniature image of the sillouette, yes my windage was off, I corrected it later that day. The main target was my first attempt at shooting my homebuilt romy G rifle at 200 yards, not as nice as the PSL but not too shabby for an AKM.
10 shots of 7N1 at 200 yds, this group is about 3".
a quick comparison of different ammo types, shot at 100 yds.
czech silvertip at 100 yds, definately MOA or better.
My handloads at 100 yds. starting at the starting load and working half grain increments upwards, target number 6 was 51 grains Alliant reloader 15 in winchester brass, cci military primers, hornady .312" 150gr. softpoints which seemed to do the best and was just under max book load and showed no signs of excessive pressure. Not bad for a standard hunting bullet.
These tests were done with the stock trigger, I have since installed a red star arms adjustable and it is WORLDS better! I cant wait to get back to the range and do some more testing.
5 shots of 7N1 at 200 yards, 4 rounds into 1.25" with a flyer (which I called, darned gritty stock trigger....grrr) if we eliminate the flyer thats ALMOST 1/2 MOA but not consistant enough to claim the rifle as being sub MOA.
wolf 148gr. bimetal, 1.25" @ 100 yds.
7N1 at 100, about an inch
7N1 at 100 yds, about an inch
7N1 at 100 yds....about half an inch.....these targets were shot in succession with scantly a minute between strings, the barrel was not cleaned or given much time to cool between strings.
My PSL bagged up on a concrete bench, the 200 yard targets are the teeny strip way back in the woods.
My girl....
So in closing could the OP have gotten 5 inch groups at 800 yards? well I dont have any evidence to disprove his claim but from what I`ve experienced the PSL can be darned accurate given the right load.
Thanks for your time,
Bossman