Remarks:
Overall this felt like it was giving you a choice, small groups or higher velocity. The velocities were a lower than I hoped for coming in 100-150 fps than the model predicted..
Objective:
This rifle is my longer range deer hunting rifle. For this setup, my goal is to develop a hunting load that is effective up to 350-400 yards. With this bullet, I need to achieve a MV of at least 2,450 fps to ensure the bullet will deliver at least 1,000 ft/lbs of energy past 350 yards. With this load work up, I’m looking to balance max accuracy with max velocity.
Conditions:
- Date: 5/7/22
- Temperature: 75F
- Wind: 0-5mph
Firearm:
- Barrel: PSA 18” 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: Hodgdon BLC-2
- Primer: CCI #41
- 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:
- 28.0 Grains (3 shot group)
- 28.5 Grains
- 29.0 Grains (This is the load I would use)
- 29.5 Grains
- 30.0 Grains
- Optimal Ballistics Table
- Optimal Bullet Drop
Brass:
Summary:
At 29.0 grains, I had a 0.63 MOA group without that flyer and I’m pretty sure that was me. I will retest that load to confirm but with that velocity and group size, I would feel comfortable hunting to 300 yards. There were no apparent pressure signs on my brass.