read thru some of the older threads (2016 and 2017) but I know there are newer bullets (ELD-X and ELD-M) as well as powders (RL16 and IMR4451 mostly) so figured I'd ask again and see what folks are currently using.
I'm getting ready to prep brass and gather components, but probably won't have the rifle for another month or two (or three), so time to get stuff together.
What powder and bullets are most having luck with? The rifle will have a 26" 1:8 twist barrel (rock creek if it matters). I have been assuming I'd stick with Hornady ELD-M (and maybe develop a load with ELD-X so I could take it hunting). 140gr seems to be what a lot of folks are shooting from Hornady factory ammo but they make 100/120/123/130/140/147 ELD-M. I’ve shot SMK’s in the past but the ELD seems to be the current favorite for many.
Powder- seems the go to is H4350 or RL16. I have IMR 4064, Varget, and others but assume I’ll get some H4350 soon. Worth trying RL16 or just keep it in mind if my rifle doesn't like H4350? Availability doesn't seem to be an issue these days as it was when people started developing rounds for the rifle. Even 4451 seems to be good for some folks.
My goal is to use this rifle to learn to shoot longer ranges. I've only had hunting rifles in the past (35, 308 and 280 mostly in pumps (141 and 7600) and single shots (#1)) and want to work on my skills and try my hand at some longer ranges (600+). Possibly shoot a PRS match or two if I can get in some practice and feel confident with my abilities.
I'm getting ready to prep brass and gather components, but probably won't have the rifle for another month or two (or three), so time to get stuff together.
What powder and bullets are most having luck with? The rifle will have a 26" 1:8 twist barrel (rock creek if it matters). I have been assuming I'd stick with Hornady ELD-M (and maybe develop a load with ELD-X so I could take it hunting). 140gr seems to be what a lot of folks are shooting from Hornady factory ammo but they make 100/120/123/130/140/147 ELD-M. I’ve shot SMK’s in the past but the ELD seems to be the current favorite for many.
Powder- seems the go to is H4350 or RL16. I have IMR 4064, Varget, and others but assume I’ll get some H4350 soon. Worth trying RL16 or just keep it in mind if my rifle doesn't like H4350? Availability doesn't seem to be an issue these days as it was when people started developing rounds for the rifle. Even 4451 seems to be good for some folks.
My goal is to use this rifle to learn to shoot longer ranges. I've only had hunting rifles in the past (35, 308 and 280 mostly in pumps (141 and 7600) and single shots (#1)) and want to work on my skills and try my hand at some longer ranges (600+). Possibly shoot a PRS match or two if I can get in some practice and feel confident with my abilities.
