Load Development method

[andybrock]

Hi all,
This is my first question on here and it certainly won't be my last!

Apologies if it's been asked before ( I've read all I could find using search) but what I'd like to know is what method you use for load development? I'm trying to develop a load using 75gn Amax / Varget in my 1:8 22br.

Many thanks Andy

 

[hogpatrol]

Start here: http://forum.accurateshooter.com/index.php?topic=3814361.0

 

[Bigguy1951]

+1

 

[chkunz]

You will get better answers if you provide more details as to the application for the load, plinking, hunting, XTC, Mid Range, F Class, AR, bolt gun, etc. My default is the accuracy load in the Sierra manual. Some folks use the ladder test referenced above but many do not and a lot depends on how you plan to use the load.

 

[chkunz]

Also, I should have asked what is your reloading experience level. You will get thrown into the deep end of the pool real quick and if you are ready for that this is a good place to get help with that but if you are new or relatively inexperienced you will need a different level of answer. Are you wanting to learn arithmetic or differential equations?

 

[Danattherock]

Be sure to research OCW method by Dan Newberry. Google optimal charge weight and you will find his website.

 

[andybrock]

You will get better answers if you provide more details as to the application for the load, plinking, hunting, XTC, Mid Range, F Class, AR, bolt gun, etc. My default is the accuracy load in the Sierra manual. Some folks use the ladder test referenced above but many do not and a lot depends on how you plan to use the load.

Many thanks for the answers so far folks. The gun is bolt action custom action, heavy varmint Truflite barrel, Jewel trigger, manners stock, it's primary use is for fox control.
I've worked up a load that's "good enough" for this application but I'm wanting to get every bit of accuracy out of this gun as I possibly can. I'm an experienced reloader, but at the moment these 75gn amax are getting the better of me! I load for my other rifles which are .22ppc and 6mmppc.
Thanks Andy

 

[dedogs]

What specifically are you having trouble with?

 

[andybrock]

What specifically are you having trouble with?

Just really getting the 75amax to shoot well or at least shoot consistently.
I've already done my usual load development technique which is very similar to the methods above but I'm struggling to find a good accuracy sweet spot with it.

 

[SS427]

I suggest you buy The Book of Rifle Accuracy by Tony Boyer and try his technique. He has enjoyed some success with developing accurate loads. And if it doesn't work for you, the rest of the book is information you will want anyway for all the other aspects of accuracy.

 

[LCazador]

Before you start any load development you should know your chamber dimensions. Use a chamber length guage and find your chamber length and then trim accordingly. Your should also find your maximum cartridge overall length. Start .010" off the lands and work your way in and out in .005" increments. Next find your headspace requirements and fireform your brass to your chamber and then bump the shoulder .001"-.002". After fireforming you can start your load work. Some brass prep that I consider a must is to start out with a square case mouth by trimming the brass. Trim to the shortest case in the lot. I use a bushing die and start out with .002" neck tension. I do not use the expander button in any of my dies. My 22BR shoots sub .2's with the 75g A-Max and Varget. It's a 7 twist Krieger, 29 inch heavy Varmint. I shoot prairie dogs with it out to 1000 yards.

 

[CPorter]

There are variety of load development methods. I like the ladder test for simplicity but use the optimum barrel time method to set up the ladder and tune it in with variables like neck tension & seating depth.

http://www.the-long-family.com/OBT_paper.htm

 

[fm1947]

Remember some times some barrels just don't shoot a particular bullet the way you want, try other brands like berger or sierra, it seems every barrel has it's own personality what works for one guy may not work for you, time spent testing can really pay off in the end