This is probably a very simple question but I don't know the answer as I am just beginning to reload. Do I have to use the reloading manual specific to the brand bullet I am loading? For example, if I going to load a Berger in 6.5 CM do I have to have a Berger reloading manual? Along those same lines, do I have to use the powder they have listed to load that bullet? I plan to load 6.5CM with H4350 but I want to also reload 300PRC. I don't see H4350 listed on the Hornady 300PRC load sheets. How will I know the max powder charge for different bullets and different powders? Want to make sure I don't blow up myself or my gun.
Using load data
- Thread starter leclairk
- Start date
You don’t have to use the manual to match the brand of bullet but you should use their powders listed for that cartridge the top is the fastest burn rate the lowest is the slowest burn rate but always use the same weight and style bullet for comparison always start low and work your way up
No, you don't.
But, that doesn't mean that any data will do. I have manuals with published data that I know will pierce primers in some rifles. I know that because I worked up.
But a manual, download everything available from Hodgdon, Nosler, and Western, and then you'll have a starting point.
But, that doesn't mean that any data will do. I have manuals with published data that I know will pierce primers in some rifles. I know that because I worked up.
But a manual, download everything available from Hodgdon, Nosler, and Western, and then you'll have a starting point.
dgeesaman
Gold $$ Contributor
Hodgdon does not have any info for H4350 in the 300 PRC. If anyone would have that load, it’s them.
I recommend you buy a different powder for the 300 PRC, one that has load data.
Matching the bullet is pretty important too.
As a beginner you might be wise to buy both powder and bullets that agree exactly with a loading manual.
David
You REALLY need to read a manual or even two or three. Not all the data, just the "How To" part.
Load data is readily available online from all the major powder manufacturers. The basics aren't and the reloading websites like Hodgdon's assume you know enough to not do anything dangerous.
H4350 is a medium burn rate powder. The 300 PRC is an overbore cartridge used primarily with very heavy bullets and you sure don't want a moderate burn rate powder in that case. When the powders listed start with Retumbo and H1000, very slow burn rates, it's an indicator you need a really slow burning powder.
I think I still have several loading manuals that I'll never use again. If you want a couple or three send me a PM and you can have them for the shipping cost.
By the way, I wouldn't recommend the Berger manual. Most of the data I've seen there is taken from QuickLoad estimations. Hodgdon, Viht, Sierra, etc. get their data from actually shooting the cartridge.
Load data is readily available online from all the major powder manufacturers. The basics aren't and the reloading websites like Hodgdon's assume you know enough to not do anything dangerous.
H4350 is a medium burn rate powder. The 300 PRC is an overbore cartridge used primarily with very heavy bullets and you sure don't want a moderate burn rate powder in that case. When the powders listed start with Retumbo and H1000, very slow burn rates, it's an indicator you need a really slow burning powder.
I think I still have several loading manuals that I'll never use again. If you want a couple or three send me a PM and you can have them for the shipping cost.
By the way, I wouldn't recommend the Berger manual. Most of the data I've seen there is taken from QuickLoad estimations. Hodgdon, Viht, Sierra, etc. get their data from actually shooting the cartridge.
Big_Daddy
Gold $$ Contributor
This is the best advice of all.
I have "mentored" many newbie reloaders and it definitely solidifies the learning process.
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