Load data with CFE223, 55gr FMJ

[tsoiky]

Can you guys share your load data if you use this powder for 223?

I am testing load for my Howa 1500 1:9 20" barrel. By following the hornady book, 25.4gr cfe223 on a 55 gr bullet, the group is terrible. Almost a 2" group.

Also tested with factory Fiocchi 50gr Vmax, I got a sub moa group. Then I know the Howa is sub moa group rifle.

I have 8lbs cfe223 powder so I wanna use this powder only. Any advise?



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[baih777]

It sounds like you just loaded to a number out of the book. You need to work up a load to max and do a ladder test by .2 or .3 increments loads less than the max to find what works with your rifle.
I have the same rifle but I am not home for the holidays.

Also what bullets are you using?

[smoothy8500]

on a 55 gr bullet, the group is terrible. Almost a 2" group.

Any advise?

Many FMJ's are mediocre. Hornady FMJ's can be ok in some barrels, mediocre in others.

Think about getting a quality projectile from Nosler, Hornady, or Sierra and you will see better results.

[Jimmy's]

Start at a mid range load and work it up in 1/2 grain increments load 2-3 rounds of each untill you good gruops pick that load and play with changes from that load both up and down, velocity does not always equal accuracy.

[FishnHunt]

I would Load up 3 rounds all the same seat depth at .5 or 1 grain increments from mid range to max. After max I’d do half grain incraments.. at your own risk.
Set a piece of paper with 1” targets about 3 or 4” apart. Shoot and record.
See which grain/load it likes the best. Then work on seating depth.

[maxx03]

Many FMJ's are mediocre. Hornady FMJ's can be ok in some barrels, mediocre in others.

Think about getting a quality projectile from Nosler, Hornady, or Sierra and you will see better results.

^^
This. Not all bullets are created equal.

[bridgeport]

CFE .223 Is VERY temperature sensitive, and I would not recommend it as a powder for accuracy loading. CFE was designed for use in high volume ( full auto, heavy semi auto Use) and in that capacity it works well.

I think you will likely find a temp stabilized powder like Varget, or Benchmark for 55 grain bullets and under, to be a wiser choice. Just clean post shooting for copper fouling if that is a problem for you.

[smle-man]

I'd try a better projectile. I've been shooting the Hornady 68 gr HPBT and get pretty good results. On the other hand 62 gr FMJBT bullets go twice the group size in the same rifle, powder, and distance. Military grade bullets are made in bulk and only have to hold a pretty relaxed standard for accuracy.