243 & Burger Bullets

[One mer]

Appreciate the update! I should add, the 2.25 spread was for 5 shots, not 2.

 

[Mark W]

So far I've tried Hornady 105 Amax, Berger 105 Hybrid, and Sierra 107 Matchkings in my .243 RPR.

I found easy sub moa loads with the Hornadys and Bergers. I found a load with the Sierra Matchkings over H 4831SC in Lapua brass that averages closer to 1/2 moa when I can maintain focus.

I'm just getting started working with some Berger 105 Hunting VLD. I'm hoping to find something that shoots a hunting class bullet as well as Matchkings. I will probably try some Gamekings as well.

 

[lgwatson]

I have 3 new 243s-Savage LW Hunter- Twist 9.25 24 inch barrel (custom shop) Weatherby 1.10 24 inch barrel and the new Ruger precision rifle twist 1:7.7-26 inch barrel the bullet of interest is Burgers PN 24527 95 gr. VDL hunting. I have the Burger 1st. edition reloading book, I am trying to see if any one of you guys have any pet loads for this bullet and can shorten my learning curve. The Savage & weatherby I will not be shooting more than 300 to 350 yards, the Ruger 500 to 600 yards . Also on page 114 of there book is Quick Load & Quick Target, but my computer skills are so limited I am afraid to buy it, any input about it would be welcomed. Carl in Yakima

The Berger Handbook is an excellent source. Read their chapter on making VLDs shoot. I shoot their 69 and 80 varmint and the 87 and 95 Hunting VLDs in a 9 twist .243 AI and the 130 Gr VLD Hunting in my 6.5-06 AI. All give very good results. If you follow their recommendations for load development, you should have great results.

 

[wedgy]

The Ruger is a 7.7 twist so that may take the 115 grain off the table.

 

[Archis]

The Ruger is a 7.7 twist so that may take the 115 grain off the table.

I've actually had pretty good luck with 115gn DTAC's in the RPR. With PPU brass, a charge of 44.6gn of H1000, CCI BR2's, seated .005" into the lands I get an average velocity of 2833fps, ES=13 and SD=8. I can usually get 5 shot groups at around 1/2 MOA. These suckers are long though (2.82" C.O.A.L.) and require an AICS magazine for the extra depth.

I've also had decent luck with the 105 AMAX. Seated .020" off the lands, those load in the standard RPR magazine with room to spare.

My next load workup will be with VV 165 and Lapua brass to see if I can squeeze any additional accuracy out of the factory barrel.