95 gr VLD loading problem.

[croberts]

I just recived 300 of the 95 gr Berger VLD bullets to shoot in my 8" twist Shilen bbl. But I cannot jam the bullets into the lands so I am unsure of how great the accuracy will be. Have any of you fellows had any success shooting these bullets far away from the lands?
Should I try to get some of the 105's? Are they much longer than the 95's in bearing surface length?
Thanks,
Charlie

 

[AckleymanII]

Charlie, you only have a rule of thumb to go by which is that a VLD type bullet likes to be jammed into the lands a little. Your gun may be the exception to that rule, you will just have to try them and see.

 

[Forum Boss]

The Berger 95 VLDs have a VERY short bearing surface. These were designed to run in 6mms with about .060 freebore--same as for short 68gr Flatbase bullets. By contrast, the 105s run best with a freebore of .100 to .120,Using PT&G measuring system). My 6BR has about .080 freebore and I barely have enough neck to hold the 95s when seated in the lands.

 

[Forum Boss]

PT&G,Kiff) and JGS use pretty much the same way of measuring freebore. Hugh Henriksen and Clymer have their own systems. This means that when we talk about .100 freebore, that may mean different things for different reamer makers. Dave Kiff would have to explain the fine details.

This is why its always advisable to send your chosen reamer-maker a dummy round with the bullet seated where you want it.

 

[croberts]

Thanks guys I have shot some of the rounds, none have shot very well though. As of right now I have about .05 of the shank in the case neck while I am about .60 off the lands. I have had very well success shooting 107 sierra's, but I am thinking about trying some of the 105 bergers to see if I can tighten the groups up some.
Thanks
Charlie

 

[Preacher]

I'll bet you will be very pleased with the 6mm 105 Berger VLD's
Both of my 8 twist rifles put them in smaller groups than any other bullet they have tried.
Midway has them on sale til the end of the month at less than $20.00 a 100...