Hodgdon CFE and 55gr VMAX
I just got some of the new CFE powder from Hodgdon. I'll be combining it with Hornady 55gr VMAX bullets and CCI primers. Hodgdon doesn't show this combo on it's page. Will I be safe using the same combo listed for the 60gr VMAX?
That is a great combination for me in my 700 LTR. Exceptionally accurate in loadings I've tried. I used the 60 gr load data to start.
You used the 60gr data for 55gr bullets? I figure this will be safe but just wanna make sure
This is what I would do,
Use Hodgdon's start load of 26.0 grs CFE 223 for the 55 gr SPR SP and work up to the max listed load of 27.8 grs.
Shoot groups as you work up to find your best load.
Remember the "start" load is where you can substitute like components and still be safe.
I haven't used CFE 223 with 55 gr bullets yet, just loaded the 69 gr Sierra MK so far.
Then bought more CFE 223.
Here is a thread where I did up some CFE 223 55 gr V Max.
http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_6_42/370625_CFE_223_results.html
I felt safe starting at 27.0 grs because a week earlier my reloading buddy had worked up loads in this range and I shot them with no problem. I would suggest, however, that you start at 26.0 to be on the safe side.
Originally Posted By dsnyder424:
You used the 60gr data for 55gr bullets? I figure this will be safe but just wanna make sure
In general using the next heavier bullet weight is OK in the absence of data for the bullet you have.
FWIW, I use the CFE223 mostly for a bolt-action .223, so I use a bit milder loads. I'd have to check my notes but I think I was loading that right around 26.5 gr.
No experience with the 55 vmax, but lots with the 55zmax. I started at 26.0 and did not get best load until I got to 27.5 of cfe223 over cci 41 primers where it works as best combo so far in my ARs. Regards
Dryflash ––
Got an email coming at you sir.
Anyone else have any data they can share on CFE 223 and 69gr SMK?
Art
Originally Posted By Tazman1602:
Dryflash ––
Got an email coming at you sir.
Anyone else have any data they can share on CFE 223 and 69gr SMK?
Art
Use the IM button at the bottom of one of my posts.
I don't use E-mail at home.
I got my CFE 223 data from Hodgdon's site, also in the yearly manual they publish.
Same data.
cfe 223 and hdy 55 gr spwc shot best with 27.5 grains
sp a little different than fmj...
I saw no signs of overpressure at 28 grains
27.5gn CFE-223 seems to be the most common, and accurate charge for just about all weights of bullets. Including my loads. I tested all the way up the 29.5gn, and after 27.5gn the groups seemed to open up, and didn't get smaller, no matter what was done. The velocity was outstanding though. I think my 29.5gn charges with a 53gn bullet were in the 3650fps range. But whats velocity without accuracy?
Originally Posted By KAZ22:
No experience with the 55 vmax, but lots with the 55zmax. I started at 26.0 and did not get best load until I got to 27.5 of cfe223 over cci 41 primers where it works as best combo so far in my ARs. Regards
ditto
