Where on the load range do you start with AR loads?

[blarby]

Just out of random curiosity- does your weapon have an adjustable gas port ?

Or perhaps a poorly fitting gas tube ?

You should certainlly not need over-pressure loads to cycle an AR action. (25.5)

25 should cycle it. It just should.

Have you ran any factory ammo through this gun ? If you can, grab a ox of PMC bronze and run it, an let us know the results.

 

[Rushthezeppelin]

No on the adjustable gas port. Gas block was actually canted on me first day at the range but I got that fixed up at the shop before the reloads (apparently didn't torque the set screws enough when I replaced the gas block 500 rounds ago to put on a FF tube). I am actually finding though that my gas rings are worn out causing the occasional short stroke even with factory 223 and will be grabbing more asap. Only had one short stroke on the 25.0 load which I'm almost positive was caused by this (if not that then my only other option I haven't explored is worn out buffer tube spring but I'm pretty sure its the gas rings). Once i replace these the 24.5s might even cycle for me although they had absolutely terrible accuracy so probably no point. 25.0 will probably be my load I go with once everything is said and done but obviously more testing needs to be done. Also going to start load workup with my CFE223 soon to see if I get some better accuracy out of those loads (which from everything I'm reading they generally do).

 

[tootall]

Sounds like you may be chasing firearm issues vs. hand loads.

On the gas rings, I've not really seen this even with NFA auto operation on DI uppers (1000s of rounds). Worth a shot in changing them and space the split around vs. all lined up.

Your bore in the bolt carrier for the pistons may also be fouled, check that.

Also check that gas block has not moved forward (to flash hider)....had that happen on a piston upper with set screws.. short stroke issues.

A weak buffer spring is more apt to cause a double feed vs. a short stroke (does not pick up the round).

Also, what buffer weight are you running (and barrel/gas system length)?

I think this is more of a gun issue vs. the load range (though 24g is very low.. I use W748 at 26g for m193 2.25" COL, this is a 5.56 load NOT .223 REM)

 

[Rushthezeppelin]

Bcg is not overly fouled. Gas block is on good now. Id imagine the reason my rings are worn is because in using a non chrome lined carrier and the windy dusty conditions at most ranges around where I am. Guess ill find out soon.

 

[32_d3gr33s]

All of my ar15 loads are 23.5 grains IMR 4895 and Xtreme 55gr fmj at 2.220 oal. Never had any problems in either my 16" rifle or 7.5" pistol. I started at 22.5 grains and it cycled fine. sounds more like a rifle issue than load issue

 

[Rushthezeppelin]

Ohh and forgot to mention carbine length carbine gas system.

 

[blarby]

Ok, I now suspect something wrong with the rifle as well.

If you aren't comfortable diagnosing your gas problem on the rifle itself, a trip to a qualified gunsmith might save you a lot of headache.