Savage Model 12 F T/R & Savage Model 12 LRPV 223 comparator measurements?

Has anyone on the forum ever done comparator measurements for either the Savage Model 12 F T/R or Savage Model 12 LRPV (223 Remington Models w/ 1:7 twist)?

If so, what have your measurements indicated as the approx. max COAL of 80/90 SMKs or 75/80 gr Amax/ELD-M bullets?

I am trying to determine if these Savage rifles will chamber the "heavies" at published COAL, i.e. max. 2.550" for the 80 SMK and 2.390" min COAL for the Horndays. I'd hate to put down $ on one or the other only to find out that they won't support loads for F T/R competition.

thanks, information and input most appreciated.

 

Haven't done so recently. From what I recall, the throat on the 12 FTR is probably closer to a Wylde chamber, than what I'd consider a true bolt-gun .223 chamber i.e. long enough to handle 75-80s throated out a little ways, but no where near what a dedicated FTR chamber would be.

That said, it shouldn't be hard at all for any halfways competent gunsmith to run a UniThroater in to match a dummy round you provide. If you're feeling 'handy', it's possible to do it yourself. I'd probably recommend having the gunsmith do it, though.

 

Just to be clear - for something to get your feet wet at mid-range matches - 300, 500 & 600 yds - they'll work just fine. If the throat is a bit shorter than maybe is ideal, it's not the end of the world. Just bear that in mind when reviewing load data that you find on the Interweb (including this forum). Some of what you see posted may be intended for a *loooong* throated chamber, so back off the load and work up your own, keeping in mind that you might not be able to reach the advertised velocities safely. That doesn't mean you won't be able to find a good, accurate load.

 

thanks!

 

Mine measured EXACTLY 2.550" to lands with the 80 SMK, but preferred about .030" jump. I've heard others report different COALs, so I would definitely measure yourself before blindly loading them to it.

By the way, mine prefers the Berger 80 VLDs at around .030 off with H4895. The SMKs shot fine, but the Bergers were much tighter during load development. Mine also prefers H4895 over Varget, RE-15, and 2000MR.

I have not tried the 80.5 Fullbores yet, but it's reported that since they have a shorter bearing surface they can achieve a higher velocity than the VLDs but have essentially the same BC.

YMMV

 

Thank you very much!

 

Is yours an F Class or LRPV?

 

I've loaded for a Savage Model 12 F-TR. The thing is scary accurate with 80 SMKs. 2.500" OAL is in the lands. But everything from 2.520" to 2.485" is lights out with 23 grains of Varget for 2850 fps. My aging eyes can't do it, but shooters I've trained have posted 200-20x scores.

 

Sorry I didn't specify. It's a F/TR. Build date is Feb 2012 if I remember correctly.

Edit: I found a lot of information on a certain load for the 80 VLD with Varget (24.5gn) that is posted in a lot of places on the web. I was showing pressure signs and even pierced a primer before getting up to that charge, even with the bullet seated long to the lands. I highly recommend starting lower and working your way up, even if the web makes something seem like a standard load.

 

Having the firing pin hole bushed would probably help that *immensely*. Check with @Grimstod for more details! Inexpensive, and fast!

 

Monte, I never really felt the need to have that done until lately but with being able to push the bullets a little harder I'm sure it's a necessity. The brass seems to take the hot loads much better than the primers do. Thanks for the tip!

 

Thank you all, your information has been most helpful.