Too much??

[BULLET 05]

loading some .243 Winchester rounds. 80 grain Hornady Gmx using IMR 4451 I am wondering if 42.5 grains is too hot to even try? The hodgdon web page says the GMX Bullet max load is 41.8 gr. They also list a 80 grain SIE BTSP at max load to be 46.2. I loaded up several at 42.5 a while back and i swear I didn’t see the page and on the web site with a listing for the GMX bullets.

 

[Rsadams]

I think I would simply load a few moving towards 42.5 and watch for problems instead of just trying them for the sake of safety... I am sure someone will jump in that loads that bullet to help you... Always trust your gut....

 

[searcher]

Yeah - you pretty much have to test the "outer limits" if you want to find out what your rifle will take. Do be warned though - it seems that the powder companies list much warmer loads for their powders than those shown in most reloading manuals from the bullet manufacturers. If you tried your load out before in the winter, you could be in for a surprise in the summer heat unless you do that testing in a gradual, controlled manner.