243 and H4350 Question.

[JR1968]

I just got a new 243 win. and with the supply shortage I had to get H4350 instead of IMR4350.

Sierra with their 85gr. HPBT calls for min. of 39.6 and max of 42.2 of IMR4350.
And would like to know what change I need to make with H4350 or do I use the same data
for IMR4350?

I would appreciate anyones help.

Thanks,
jr1968

 

[dkhunt14]

Go to Hodgen site and look it up. The H4350 should be slightly slower. On some charts they are right after one another. Matt

 

[JR1968]

I looked at Hodgens site, they only list the Barnes 85gr. TSX, it lists 37.3 min and 40.5 max.
Do I use this data?

 

[boltgunluvr]

To address your important question.....don't use the same powder charge as they are different powders, even thought they are close on the burn rate chart. Stay safe. Start low and work up like always. For a basic reference....I use the 95 gr SMK with H4350. Hodgdon recommends 39-42gr charge. My rifles prefer 40.5gr charge. I formerly used IMR 4350 and the rifles preferred 39.5 gr charge. So you'll notice these are the halfway point from the powder manufacturer recommendations, BUT they are totally different.

Yes, there are some circumstances, with some cartridges, using different powders, where the powder charges may end up being the same, but be assured, these powders are two different beasts. I've always liked the 85gr HPBT and it's a favorite that's well proven. I had better groups when using IMR 4064.

 

[watercam]

FWIW I was using 42 gr. H4350 with SMK 107s in Lapua brass. Was running about 3150 fps from a 30" barrel.
Every rifle is different as is every component combination. Your's may be able to use more or less than published load data but it certainly is wise to pay attention to it!

 

[searcher]

I second the use of IMR 4064 for 85 grains in a .243- but I have a range pal that gets incredible accuracy using H 4350 and the 58 grain v-max bullets on varmints, on up to the 90 Ballistic Tips. He shoots it in our monthly club matches and cleans up.