Reloading the 264 Win Mag

[New264gunner]

Good Day,
Just getting started w/some questions:
Non-competitive target shooting. Working my way out to possibly 600 to 800 yards/meters.
I have a pre ‘64 Win. M70, .264 WM
Trying to preserve the barrel by working up more mild loads with flat base, lighter bullets, such as 100 gr. Sierra Varminter, or 100 gr. Lapua Full Metal Jacket
As for powder choice, I’d like to know which is more detrimental to the barrel, fast burning powder, or volume of powder?
Due to shorter bullet choice, bullet jump should be of no concern.
Exactly how does seating depth affect the internal/external ballistics?
Lastly, for this post, 100 yrd/meter or 200 yrd/meter zero distance, pros and cons?
Thank you for sharing of your knowledge. I appreciate ANY useful input.
New264gunner

 

[DanSavage]

I’d say look at a couple reloading manuals and pick a powder that will work with the bullets you choose. I wouldn’t worry about barrel life,, feed it the bullets that it shows you it likes. Screaming it getting the barrel real hot will reduce its life but barrels can always be replaced!

 

[ebb]

I don't want to trash your plan, but I can't see why with stated intention of 600 to 800 yds why would you waste barrel life with a 100 grain flat based bullet at 100 or 200 yds. Get some 140 grain Bergers and make every shot a step towards your goal. But thats just me, I have a 6.5-284 and it's never seen a bullet lighter than 140 grains and rarely gets shot at 100yds.

 

[CJ6]

If you want to "preserve " the original barrel, pull it and put an aftermarket barrel on.
The 140 gr.+ bullets will be much easier to shoot at longer distance (600-800 yds).