Remarks:
For this test, I have switched my optic to a Nikkon P Tactical with fixed 3x zoom. It has a very clear picture and I am trying to rule out accuracy problems due to the optic as this is a known good scope. With that, I expect the group sizes to be a little larger. Also, for this load I messed up the targets by shooting at neighboring stickers so I have to estimate the group sizes. As this load didn’t peform as well as the other two, I’m not worried about it.
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: 10/7/22
- Temperature: 80F
- Wind: 0-5mph
Firearm:
- Barrel: PSA 12” 1:7 Twist
- Upper: PSA
- Lower: PSA
- Lower Parts: PSA
- Trigger: Larue MBT-2
Components:
- Bullet: Barnes 120 gr TTSX BT – G1 B.C.: 0.412
- Powder: IMR 4895
- Primer: CCI #41
- Brass: Hornady
- Dies: Lee Pacesetter 3-die set
- Chronograph: Caldwell Ballistic Precision
Measurements:
- Case Trim Length: 1.510
- C.O.L.: 2.235
Load / Model Data:
- Charge Data
Summary:
I’m publishing the charge data and resulting velocities just for reference as the results weren’t really worth documenting. While the targets were messed up and accuracy can’t be confirmed, this powder didn’t achieve the velocity of the other two powders tested (N133 & A2200). Also, the estimated accuracy didn’t seem to compete with the others either. This would not be my choice of powder for this bullet, at least in my rifle