First attempt at reloading - 6.5 creedmoor

[6.5Roestalker]

I am new to reloading and would appreciate some advice on load development.

I have a Lee challenger kit with ultimate die set. In order to keep things simple, I have opted for components exactly as listed in the hornady manual and hodgdon load data. The aim is to develop a reliable hunting load for all UK deer species. I am reloading as a hobby and so that I have a reliable supply, it is not a cost saving exercise or a search for the ultimate precision. I have opted for the following components:

Hornady brass
Superformance Powder
Federal 210 primers
Hornady 143g ELD-X bullets

The hornady manual has a 44.7g maximum powder weight (2800fps) for 140-143g bullets.

The Hodgdon load data has a 45.8g maximum powder weight (2795fps) for 143g ELD-X bullet.

This seems like quite a big difference given the same powder, brass and bullet weight.

My plan is to work up to 44.7g. Would it be sensible to start at 41g and then go up to 42g, 43g, 44g and then 44.7g? Could I start higher that 41g?

The Hodgdon data is for this specific bullet and has a 45.8g load for the same velocity as the hornady 44.7g load. Can anyone explain this? Is it because the hornady book groups the 143g ELD-X with the lighter 140g bullets? My understanding was that a heavier bullet would have a lower max charge.

After each group I will check that the primer is not too flat there are no marks on the base of the case, and look out for a stiff bolt. Is there anything else I need to look for?

Does this sound sensible and is there anything that I am missing? Any advice from experienced reloaders would be very welcome.

 

[gixer1]

You will also need to check for soot on the body/neck of the case as this can indicate low pressure.

Are you going with reloading manual overal lengths?

I would recommend you start at the low end - it won’t do any harm.

regards,
Gixer

 

[Cottis]

Start at the minimum advised charge weight and work up. For a cartridge with the capacity of 6.5CM, I would increase each charge weight by 0.4grains.

If post shot you can open the bolt as normal, with the primer still having somewhat of a radius on the edge and the head of the case having no ejector marks, then you have successfully loaded and fired a cartridge that is not outwardly displaying any excessive signs of pressure. If you do encounter any of those signs, stop and have a think and come back and ask if unsure.

But if you start at the bottom of the advised charge weight, do not exceed max powder weight, seat the bullets to the OAL advised by Hornady, seat primers just below flush of case head and go slow and steady for the first few times you reload, then you will be absolutely fine.

Enjoy your shooting when you get on the range and take your time.

 

[Border]

I would recommend getting a box of Hornady ammo with the intended bullet. Chrono it in your rifle so you know what speed and accuracy to expect. I would also take a measure of the c.o.a.l, preferably to the ogive if you have the equipment. Then you have a baseline of what to expect and some 1x fired cases.

 

[paultap]

One point worth noting is that If you look at the load data, especially from American sources, take a look at the test barrel length used, this is very often 24 inches, sometimes longer. The data given will be accurate for loads worked up in the individual test barrel THEY have used. This loading data will differ slightly from different sources as they will have been worked up using different barrels.

If you look at 243 load data for example, again this is often worked up using longer barrels such as 24 inches. We very rarely see barrels of this length on a Uk rifle used for stalking. The Americans seldom use moderators for hunting either so their hunting outfits are generally more compact, even when using longer barrels. They do however often use muzzle brakes, but these are lighter and much more compact than the sound moderators we use.

 

[andyk]

I've tended to find that Hodgdon suggest hotter loads than Hornady.

The difference is likely different barrels, chambers, brass etc, a really tight chamber will increase pressure over a loose one as will a thin brass case over a thick one. The thing with reloading is to remember that your rifle is not the rifle in the reloading manual and the pressures will not be the same. The manual provides good guidance but is no substitute for proper testing (although it sounds like you will be doing that).

I'd add to keep an eye on the chrono to determine if what you're achieving makes sense. For example, if more powder is not increasing velocity then you need to stop, as pressure will be ramping up even if the velocity doesn't suggest it should be. Also, if you have a short barrel (like many UK rifles do), keep in mind that the handbook velocities may be unachievable and, if you are achieving them, it is almost certainly with more pressure.

 

[NP435]

Bear in mind that no two lab's agree exactly on powder charges even with the same powder. You may not get the velocity shown either in the manual or stated on factory loads. Work up slow. Also the chamber you have isn't exactly as the one used by either Hornady or Hodgdon. Throat length will vary your seating depth need's to not allow projectiles jammed in the rifling, the magazine length is also to be noted so you ammo does indeed function.

 

[6.5Roestalker]

Thank you all for your very helpful replies, that is exactly the advice I needed.