Remarks:
Use caution with this load as I am working up towards max allowed pressure. I was excited to get my hands on this powder but was honestly a little disappointed with the accuracy results. The velocities were very close to the GRT model data and the standard deviations and extreme spreads were nice. This is a load combination that I will be exploring further in the future to look for a little more speed and accuracy..
Objective:
This rifle is my primary hunting rifle, especially for deer. For this setup, my goal is to develop a hunting load that is effective up to 200+ yards. With this bullet, I need to achieve a MV of at least 2,200 fps to ensure the bullet will deliver at least 1,000 ft/lbs of energy past 200 yards. With this load work up, I’m looking to balance max accuracy with max velocity.
Conditions:
- Date: 4/13/22
- Temperature: 80F
Firearm:
- Barrel: PSA 12” 1:7 Twist
- Upper: PSA
- Lower: PSA
- Lower Parts: PSA
- Trigger: Larue MBT-2
Components:
- Bullet: Hornady 123 gr SST – G1 B.C.: 0.510
- Powder: VihtaVuori N-133
- Primer: CCI #400
- Brass: Hornady
- Dies: Lee Pacesetter 3-die set
- Chronograph: Caldwell Ballistic Precision
Measurements:
- Case Trim Length: 1.510
- C.O.L.: 2.245
- C.B.T.O: 1.678
Load / Model Data:
- Gordons Reloading Tool Data
- Charge Data
- GRT Pressure Curve
- Expected Ballistics Table
- Expected Bullet Drop
Results:
- 23.0 Grains
- 23.5 Grains
- 24.0 Grains
- 24.5 Grains
- 25.0 Grains
- Optimal Ballistics Table
- Optimal Bullet Drop
Summary:
At the highest charge weight, I am still ~50 fps short of my target velocity and looking at a 2.16 MOA group. There were no pressure signs on my brass so there may be room to go up a little bit more on the charge weight. The VihtaVuori load data shows going up to 26.7 grains with N133 and the Lapua 123gr Scenar bullet. However, I will be exploring other powders before attempting to increase this charge any further.