Remington 788

[hoss]

Gentlemen,
I have a Rem 788 that was originally in 222 cal which has been re chambered to .223AI. I would like to launch some tiny,35/40)grain bullets at warp speed. The gun has some features that I like.It's a light14 twist, has a removable magazine and is in rough shape. This is a good thing as I wish to use it for local moving target competitions. The mag thing is nice for all the convenience and the "well used" features eliminate stress due to potential gun rack damage. I am hyper vigilant about pressure/safety issues and question weather this gun can take wildcat type load development pressures. I checked out all the AI info from the forums and followed a recipe to fire form the cases with no problem.For AI loads one was up to 29 grains of IMR 4198 which will not even go in the case. I backed down the load to a regular .223 load plus a little. There were no sign of pressure. Before I go any further I thought it prudent to check with those more knowledgeable than I. My feelings are that this ain't a 700 with Three Rings of Steel and that I am flirting on the edge. I never experienced anything close to even a tight bolt in working up loads for my Stiller/ BAT actions let alone this thing. I am not comfortable pushing the envelope with it. How far can one go? I have been taught and or read how to identify pressure signs but.. In this gun? Thank you for any advice you fellows may have.
HOSS

 

[Preacher]

Pressure signs will show up the same rather it's a 700 or a 788...
Loads on the high end for a 223 will be a good start for the .223 AI chamber.

 

[jthyttin]

My experience has been that 788 stretches cases more,-> sticky bolt lift) than 700 type rifles. My 788 is 308Win, though. The stretching is usually attributed to rear bolt lugs,"bolt compression").

 

[GerryM]

Just how fast do you want to go?
I have seen bullets burn up at over 4,400FPs .
You will need to check out bullets also.
i hope this helps

 

[jerrold]

Don't claim to know if there is any comparison, but I once had a 788 chambered in 22-250 AI that had "bolt compression" issues at "Warp Speed"

jerrold

 

[Rodbolt]

Hoss,
My experience is that you will not have any trouble with the small .223 boltface 788 action. Most of the 788 complaints were ones converted to PPC and to a lesser extent the .470 or BR bolt face.

I'm shooting a couple 22-250s, 22-250AI, 308W, etc. without bolt setback. Loading dies that fit the chamber and brass/headspace knowledge/techniques help on the 788 action and on the 700 action. You will be fine with your 788.