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Posted: 4/20/2013 10:04:02 AM EDT
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I'm getting my bench set back up after a nine year hiatus.
I've been collecting load data from various threads for months now, and have found some "average" bullet/powder combos that seem to keep coming up. Having said that, I have six different bullets, and six different powders. So I really have theoretically too many possible combinations to test without running out of both bullets and powder (and with them being so hard to get right now...) I recently read about the ladder method, which seems interesting. Does anyone here use it? When I reloaded years ago, I either looked in a book (based on the bullets I could get at my local gun store) or asked shooter friends about load data. Generally I'd load 15 rounds, shoot three five shot groups, and then go up and down in powder charge testing results. This resulted in some good loads, and some complete waste of components. I'm looking for advice on the most cost effective (read: minimal use of components) to determine what bullet/powder combo will work best, and then adjust powder loads from there. Any suggestions from seasoned guys? Should I pick one bullet first and then try it with all the powders? Or try one powder with all the bullets? Does the ladder method result in less waste of components? |
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Try Dan Newberry's Optimal Charge Weight method http://optimalchargeweight.embarqspace.com/ |
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+1 Here's an old thread of mine on my first attempt at the OCW. I settled on 23.1gr in the thread above and it consistently shoots moa. |
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Be active in a shooting community. When five guys tell you the same charge weight, with the same powder and bullet has worked well for them, it's probably good to listen.
I have a buddy that started shooting 6mm BR in long range competition last year. He listened to what experienced shooters recommended. The first charge weight he used -- a year ago -- is still the one he's using. He got the suggestion for that load from the community of shooters that were running 6mm BR and had been through all the possibilities. When all the tall grass is trampled down, all you have to do is listen to experience. |
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