C.O.L. For .243

[BigFrank]

Hi, started reloading last October. Booked on a reloading course at end of April. Loaded .223 no problems. Just about to start on .243….using Hornady V-Max, 87gr with N140. Hornady manual states C.O.L. Of 2.640”…Vihtavuori states 2.689”. I’ll be experimenting with seating depths as my experience builds up but any recommendations/advice on initial C.O.L?? Rifle is a Sako S491 with 1:12 twist.

 

[.25-06]

I would follow your powder manufacturer 1st then look at other sources.

 

[David.evans]

I’m happy with 75 v max @ 2626 with v140
But as above , go to powder recommended loads , and coal

 

[Lancaster]

Are you sure it's a 1:12" twist, seems pretty slow for a .243?
The 6mm Rem was initially introduced with a 1:12" twist and wasn't a success, the .243 was introduced at about the same time and the reason why the .243 took off was it had a 1:10" twist to stabilise longer/heavier bullets.
I would also go with the powder manufacturers data.

 

[BigFrank]

Are you sure it's a 1:12" twist, seems pretty slow for a .243?
The 6mm Rem was initially introduced with a 1:12" twist and wasn't a success, the .243 was introduced at about the same time and the reason why the .243 took off was it had a 1:10" twist to stabilise longer/heavier bullets.
I would also go with the powder manufacturers data.

Ha!…got my rifles mixed up!….my .243 is Heym SR20, pretty sure it’s 1:10

 

[ashray]

and your reloading !

 

[MAH]

Hornady manual states C.O.L. Of 2.640”…Vihtavuori states 2.689”.

Hornady will base thier COL on the dimensions of "thier bullets" in particular the Ogive.9
Whereas, Vhit may have base their COL on a different bullet manufacturer. Dimentions of bullets of the same weight, but different manufacturers will vary.
I use the bullet manufacturers data.
M

 

[BigFrank]

Hornady will base thier COL on the dimensions of "thier bullets" in particular the Ogive.9
Whereas, Vhit may have base their COL on a different bullet manufacturer. Dimentions of bullets of the same weight, but different manufacturers will vary.
I use the bullet manufacturers data.
M
View attachment 300045

Both sets of data were specific to the Hornady V-Max 87gr.

 

[Cyres]

l suggest you buy Lyman reloading manual. It will give you each cartridge dimensions and COL. It will also list the COL for every bullet and load they list. If you load at factory COL your not going to be far out.
D