Berger Load Data on the safe side?

[Romulus]

Compared to other sources do you think Berger's load data is a little conservative? I don't have a computer that will run QuickLoad or I would compare my books, worked up loads, and Berger's supplied info myself.

I'm shooting the 168 hybrids 3 grains over max with 8208 XBR which isn't uncommon, but I have absolutely no signs of stress on my case. I'm happy with the velocity and accuracy. I'm getting 2740 fps and 0.27-0.55 MOA OtoO out to 420 so far - I shoot off a Harris Bipod mostly : \ so the accuracy definitely could improve.

I'd like to hear your opinions/ experiences with Berger's supplied load data in any caliber. Thanks.

 

[Shynloco]

For whatever this may be worth and not restricting my comments to Berger Bullets, I've always found and believe that during testing of any loads using the ladder method, safety always comes first and you must rely on and look for signs of pressure in excessive loads. Naturally I start on the low side of any receommended load regardless of the manual I am using. At the same time, I've experienced (and become a bit apprehensive) when I've exceeded the MAXIMUM recommended load in any manual and still no signs of pressure and my groups are tightening up. Now I've run into blowing out primers and serious primer cupping that would tell anyone with half a brain to stop and back the load down. But my point is simply that manuals contain recommended loads that were tested in their rifles. That doesn't mean that will hold true for YOUR PARTICULAR RIFLE. So just pay attention to what is happening when you inspect your casings and if you bolt become harder to open after firing which is also a sign of pressure and may not indicate it on your casing for some reason.

Good luck in your quest and maintain your safety first.

 

[Romulus]

I usually just load until I find the very first signs of pressure just so I know where it is. I usually shoot slower loads, but in this case I am over max and they are shooting great without any signs of pressure. It just makes me a bit apprehensive and curious. I need to practice my marksmanship more than my loading so I think I'm going to stick with what I have. I never got too great past 940 yds prone, so I'm hoping this winter I can stretch my paper killing abilities a little farther. ;D

If anybody is loading for any of the 6.5, 7, or .30 hybrids I would like to hear about your experiences/ setups.

 

[amamnn]

I got some data from Walt shortly before I bought my own copy of quickload--it looked like the same same same when
I later ran the loads myself on QL. And--another vote for be safe start low...