Watch-out for 40 Vmax 204

[beartrack]

I've been shooting 32 VMax in a factory encore barrel w/ outstanding results - averaging in the .3-.4 for 3 shots @100. I tried a few 40 Noslers w/ similar results, but haven't really worked up a load yet, but all five I tried were under 1" @ 100 w/ two loads around .5". This is in new remington,yuck) brass.

I thought I'd try the 40 Vmax because of the excellent results in the 32 and the much cheaper price. I could see from the scope that the different loads were running 1"+ to 2 1/2." I thought, "What's up w/ that!" I walked up to the target and all the wholes are egg shaped! The 1/12 twist is not stablizing this bullet even in a 26" barrel.

I know this has been discussed before, and some guns seem to do just fine,although I still wonder how stable they are at 400 yds). But heads up tp guys thinking about using this bullet or building a .204. I'm ordering a .204 for my savage 12 and it will definately 1/10 twist.

 

[M700]

Interesting. The .204 Ruger is new to me, bought mine last month, a CZ 527 American. So far I've only shot Hornady factory ammo, a box of 32 grainers and several boxes of 40 gr V-max. The 40 grainers have been hands down more accurate and consistent from my rifle, but I haven't shot it past 200 yards yet either.

Will be getting some handloading gear for it soon, and exploring the possibilities. Going for Wilson dies, they just seem to be a natural choice for the little .204 Ruger. I'll check on accuracy and look for keyholing with the 40's.

Regards, Guy

 

[vlcakc]

I had pretty much the same experience with a Remington 700. I bought it last month along with a couple of boxes of Hornady 40 gr V-Max factory loads. The results at 100 yds were more like shotgun patterns than groups. Loaded the brass with 40 gr V-Max's and several different powders with much the same results. Noticed the holes in the targets didn't look round. Tried some Federal 39 gr factory loads. Wow! Under 0.7" for two groups. Loaded some 32 gr Sierra's with W748. First two groups: 0.7" and 0.4". I know that the 40 gr V-Max's shoot well in some other R700's, but mine just doesn't. I use V-Max's in several different rifles and really like them. When I rebarrel the Remington I'll use a 10 or 11 twist barrel. Vic

 

[BadDad]

A lot of guns really like the sierra 39gr. I was able to develop a load that will do .3-.4” groups a 100 yards and that is in a $200 handi rifle. Best results with 10x powder so far.