178gr eld-x velocities

[Joshcc]

Been doing some searching and seem to get numbers all over the place as far as powder charges and velocities using the 178gr eld-x bullet. I understand it’s a long bullet and cuts into case capacity and being a new reloader it made me nervous to get near what hodgdons says is a max charge of varget using a 180gr bullet of a different shape. Currently I’m at 44gr of varget in pmc brass with 210m primers 2.81 OAL and am seeing 2588 FPS out of a 20”stainless psa pa-10 max charge is supposed to be 45. I haven’t seen any pressure signs but I’m not real confident in my ability to spot them either. so I figured I would ask if this sounds safe and maybe if someone could plug the numbers into a program and see if I’m in the ballpark on velocity I should be getting.

What are others getting for velocity with this bullet?

 

[T-shooter]

Many things effect the velocity and pressure. Barrel length, case capacity, seating depth, how far the bullet jumps to the lands, temperature (although Varget is not very sensitive), crimping the case necks, bearing surface of the bullet, and many other things. When looking at a reloading manual, always look at the barrel length they use first.

When working up a load, tread lightly when you get close to the max charge. Go the last full grain in no more than 2/10 grain increments and fire at least a couple of each. Carefully look at the cases. Swipe marks (on a semi auto), brass extruded into the ejector hole, flattened primers, cratered primers, and in extreme cases, a blown out primer or a case so enlarged a new primer fits very loose or falls out. (see picture below)



A fast load isn't always the most accurate load.

 

[rammac]

Where are you getting your powder charge information because the Hornady reloading manual doesn't agree with your powder charge information, they recommend no more than 42.4 grains of Varget under the 178gr ELD-X.

Most people will complain that the Hornady manual lists light loads, that's not true. The Hornady bullet design usually creates less usable case volume after they are seated. This increases max pressures and produces higher muzzle velocities. As a result the Hornady manual will usually specify lighter powder charges than reloading manuals from other manufacturers.

You are most likely over the SAAMI max pressure recommendation, how much will depend on the case volume and the chamber dimensions of your rifle. According to my estimates you have to be producing just over 62,000 PSI (SAAMI max) in order to get 2588 fps out of a 20" barrel.

 

[Joshcc]

That’s exactly what I was wondering. My Lyman manual is inline with the hornady but hodgdon had 45gr listed as max. The load I listed is grouping just under a half inch at 100. I worked up from 39.5gr with good grouping at 41gr also but only 2345 FPS. I was hoping to use the load as a 800-1000 yard target round and for hunting. Is my best bet to drop down to 41gr to be safe?