Precision loads for the 6.5X55 Swede Mauser

[Pirate69]

I have searched this topic but do not feel I have seen the information that I am looking for. I have installed a 26" McGowen heavy barrel on a Savage 110 action. Resin bedded it in a Boyds stock and purchased some 140 grain Nosler CC BTHP bullets. Loads will be using Lapua cases. Goal is to consistently shoot 0.25" to 0.5" groups at 100 yards with a 20X Burris scope. Heaviest powders available at this time include IMR4895, IMR4350, IMR4831, Ramshot Hunter, RL7.

I guess my first question concerns the velocity range that typically generates the best load precision. I have seen information indicating good precision was obtained at lower velocities and also seen statements that indicated near max velocities give good precision. The answer maybe both and also in between. Just looking for some suggestions on starting points rather than burning a lot of powder working through the possible loads. Better powder choices????

Thanks for any input.

 

[joshb]

I haven’t retested the 142. I did find an acceptable load with Lapua 123 Scenars. It seems 45.8 gave me a smaller group but it must have given me high pressure signs, as my note says use 45 grains.

 

[joshb]

I look at my reloading manuals for powder choices with a certain bullet weight. If I have some of those powders, I’ll research here for info about what the other guys are using. I’ll make my choice and load some test rounds. I like to start in the middle of the load weights and work up to max in .3 or .5 grain increases.
I’ll carefully shoot those , looking for tight grouping . I don’t care about velocity at this point. Most times, I’ll get a couple better groups out of the test. One in the lower range of powder charges and one in the upper range.
I’ll retest around those “nodes” to dial in on the best charge, then play with the seating depth of my bullets.
When I have a good combination, I’ll chrono the load for my records. Sometimes I don’t bother.
You need to decide what distances you want to shoot and test accordingly. For longer ranges, you might want to explore the higher node for the benefit of higher velocities.
They can be harder on your brass, so it’s a give and take thing.

 

[Steel Mover]

Info is half, what twist and what kind of riflng and the length of barrel. I guess I own a dozen 55s and you can start bench rest shooting with a 55, all you need is 4350 or 4831. The secret to 4831 is to eliminate the air and compress the powder. Get an old Hogdon manual. 4831 shoots at the bottom and at the top with a 1-8 twist and 85s, 120s, 130s and 140s. Seated .003 off the lands. Now the 85 need 1/8 in the case and will shoot with the lead jump. You do not need 140s in the 55.

 

[Pirate69]

I'm listening.

 

[Pirate69]

I am looking to develop a 500-yard load. The McGowan barrel is a 1/8 twist and 26" long. The two groups below represent the first ten rounds through the barreled Savage action. I had selected a mild load as a starting point and the velocities are lower than I want. Lot of drop at 500 yards. Currently rethinking where I want to start and which powders. If I was going to stay at 100 yards, this may not be a bad place to start developing from.

 

[joshb]

I like the hole with the question mark. I get those, too!