Load data help

[09cs]

I'm loading up some 223, and only have IMR 4064 available and 55gr vmax, but can't find a load listing for it in my books, I found one for 60gr vmax and 4064 but not 55 gr. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Rock6.3]

My Lyman reloading handbook, 49th edition shows:
55 Gr jacketed spt
2.260" OAL
IMR-4064
Suggested starting 23.0 gr
Max load 26.0+
+ designates a compressed load

Speer 13th
55GR
Minimum 24.5 gr
Maximum 26.5 gr

[toby]

http://www.imrpowder.com/

[09cs]

http://www.imrpowder.com/

No listing for vmax..

My Lyman reloading handbook, 49th edition shows:
55 Gr jacketed spt
2.260" OAL
IMR-4064
Suggested starting 23.0 gr
Max load 26.0+
+ designates a compressed load

Speer 13th
55GR
Minimum 24.5 gr
Maximum 26.5 gr

Can I use any jacketed 55gr data for them?

[09cs]

IMR website lists 55gr bullet, would that be ok to use?

[J-cat]

Yes, u can use heavier bullet data with a lighter bullet.

[09cs]

Yes, u can use heavier bullet data with a lighter bullet.

Really? Thought it was stick to the exact weight??

[toby]

No listing for vmax..



Can I use any jacketed 55gr data for them?

You will never find data for every powder to every bullet, Pick a mid to mid high load and go for it.

[Mot Mi]

You will never find data for every powder to every bullet, Pick a mid to mid high load and go for it.

This, sometimes you may end up having to go with the next best data as there isnt a data for every bullet and all the other variables to reloading. You can also be conservative but not go over board with doing so as it may result in a squib or a weapon not functioning correctly.

[09cs]

This, sometimes you may end up having to go with the next best data as there isnt a data for every bullet and all the other variables to reloading. You can also be conservative but not go over board with doing so as it may result in a squib or a weapon not functioning correctly.

I found load data for 60 gr vmax, or multiple different 55gr projectiles. Is it safer to go with the 55gr different bullet or 60 gr.

[Rock6.3]

loads are based more on bullet weight.
The Speer manual gives generic 55gr bullet loads which should be just fine (and are what I use)

[JagerDog]

As stated, yu're never going to find every combination. For a particular bullet, you'll find the most data with that bulletmfg's data.

For the most part 55gr is 55 gr. Beware if shooting mono bullets like Barnes though.

For the most part you can use data for a slightly heavier bullet (heavier the bullet the less the powder) as it by nature will be conservative providing the construction is similar.

Remember there's a lot of other variables. That's why you start at a reduced charge and work up with YOUR components/rifle/equipment. Published data is a GUIDE.

I appreciate your caution in learning reloading. It might behoove you to actually read some books on the subject though. You'll get a better overall understanding and be able to answer much of your questions yourself.

[tujungatoes]

As has been stated it's generally safe to use a lighter bullet with the same powder charge as a heavier projectile. Just don't ever go the other way. Also keep in mind that if you don't see a load for your bullet with 4064 it may be that it was tested, didn't perform well, and was left out of the manual for that reason.

Another (better?)option would be to contact hornady directly and ask them if they can give you a recommended starting load for the exact powder and components you're using. I've emailed them in the past with load questions and they got back to me quickly and were very helpful.

[J-cat]

Really? Thought it was stick to the exact weight??

A lighter bullet is safe to use with heavy bullet data. In other words, you won't blow yourself up using 60gr Vmax data with a 55gr Vmax. The 60gr Vmax is longer and has a lower max load. If anything, you will be able to increase that max load for use with the 55gr bullet.

Also, when looking at data for other 55gr bullets, understand the Vmax is a lot longer than a 55gr SP, takes up more room in the case, and needs less powder.

You need to learn the relationship between bullets, cases, seating depth, and pressure. Reloading requires a good understanding of the above variables.

[J-cat]

I found load data for 60 gr vmax, or multiple different 55gr projectiles. Is it safer to go with the 55gr different bullet or 60 gr.

Safer to go with the Vmax data, although you'll never be able to stuff enough 4064 in there to cause a dangerous pressure situation.