Reloader 17 or H4831SC for 284

[JayHHI6818]

This spring I bought a used Altas rifle chambered in 284 and I’m finally getting around to loading for it. I read the 7mm reloading guide here and sounds like Reloader 17 is the powder to use. Just wondering how the temperature sensitivity is for Reloader 17.

 

[Falfan2017]

I've developed loads for my .284 shehane with rl17 and it is quite sensitive. Developed loads at 70 degrees that exhibited no pressure signs then shot some at 90 degrees and blew a primer. Reduced my load to the lower node a couple grains down and have had no problems since. But it's still in the high 80s/90s in Mississippi. Who knows if the load will hold up when it cools off.
You will get very high speeds with rl17.

I'd say if you're competing and know about what temps you're shooting in rl17 can work. However if this is a hunting gun and could be fired in varying weather I'd probably look elsewhere.

 

[FeMan]

I have used RL17, H4350, H4831sc and RL23 in the 284. They have all produced very accurate loads. I hunt and shoot tactical and some F-class. After a half-dozen barrels, I am down to using only RL23 and H4831sc. RL17 was way too temp sensative for me and H4350 was only the most accurate in one of those barrels. You didn't say what weight bullets you were shooting but I am assuming 180 class. All of my shooting has been with 175s and 180s.

 

[jr600yd]

I quit playing around with powders for my 284. You could burn out the barrel before being done. Now I just shoot H-4831sc for 180 class bullets.

 

[dsinfour]

I am into my second barrel and use H4350 with 162 and 168 pills to get the job done since I have 40 lbs of the stuff and use in the 6.5 creedmoor also for the 140 grainers...Remember to keep them in the center...Later

 

[jawjaboy]

Running a straight 284 with 183 SMK. Get a little better vertical, group size, ES and SD, and more speed from RL-23 than H4831SC in my F-Class rig. RL-23 is very temperature stable for me. YMMV.

 

[JayHHI6818]

180-183’s. I necked up Lapua 6.5x284 Brass and the shoulder ended up -.004 from a fired case that came with the rifle. Had some Reloader 19 left over from another cartridge so I’m using it up and seated Nosler 168’s custom competition .010 into rifling. 5 shots at 100 yds after zeroing the scope.

 

[Willow]

Most friends of mine who shoot 284s in F-class find their most accurate loads with H4350 and run around the 2800-2815fps mark - that tends to produce great groups. Due to the inherent nature of the case design, I wouldn't, and don't see the point of trying to hotroad a 284, the primer pockets just give up too quickly and you'd be better off looking at a 280AI or a 7SAUM if it's speed your chasing.

 

[Yote Hunter]

Reloader 23 with 162 to 180 gr bullets. Tempestable, impressive velocities and most accurate in my Rifle

 

[normmatzen]

I started my straight 284 on sc also then switched to RL-17 which did a bit better. Then I switched to RL-16 and haven't looked back!