30 BR with LT-32

[ReedG]

I've been doing a little testing with my 30 BR and LT-32 with encouraging results. This is not a definitive exacting test and my shooting skills are not good enough to do the test much dignity. H4198 works just fine in the 30 BR and there is not a screaming need for a new powder, other than those who have some LT-32 and cannot find H4198. My test is very preliminary, consisting of two trips to the range with several loads and shooting in very pesky winds and rain. Today's temp was 41F and humidity was 43%.

Cases: Lapua (with many dozens of firings)
Primers: CCI BR4
Necks: Sized .3245" / loaded .328"
Powder: LT-32 (with a "3" on the bottom) charges all weighed
Bullets: Euber 115-gr. FB (seated +.010), t-d coated

The rifle is a Jim Borden-built BAT SV in Robertson BRX stock, Krieger barrel (with 3,367 rounds), Sightron 10-50x60 scope.

I've tried charges all the way from 34.0 to 36.5 in .5-gr. increments. Only the "hottest" loads showed much promise. The charges of 36.0 and 36.5 take lots of patience and a long drop tube. (Note: LT-32 does not seem to like to be compressed; it is very solid when the bullet reaches it.)

The top group (36.0 LT-32 -- 2,926 fps), I fired two and then clicked the scope and fired the last three. The bottom group (36.5 LT-32 -- 2,972 fps) is five shots and I'm sorry to say one scooted out the top a bit in the wind:

 

[Thud]

Reed, Any pressure signs with the 36-36.5gr load.

 

[ReedG]

Lou, that's good news. The wheels of introducing new powders turn very slowly. I wonder if a 30 BRX, with the extra boiler room, would work better with the LT-32?

Thud, no signs of pressure at all and I think another .5 or so would make the load sing, but no way I can get it into my cases. My best H4198 load with these bullets is at 3,085 fps and I think LT-32 would hold that speed safely but won't fit in the case.