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reloading 223 vs 556

SpeedyR

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I picked up some Nosler 77gr HPBT bullets last week that I will load up for my AR-15 (16" 1:7 twist). As I was looking at load data for 77gr bullets, I wanted to try two other powders besides my usual Varget to see if any of them are "better" (more accurate, better velocity, etc). I narrowed it down to Hodgden H335 and Ramshot TAC (I had both in the cabinet). Easy to find loads for Varget and H335 but the interesting thing when I was looking thru the Ramshot manual, they have the standard 223 loads, then another section for heavy/long bullets (nice that they have actual load data for 62gr M855 and 62gr FMJ) but they also have a smaller section of "<62350psi" loading data.

it's all 62+gr bullets, and the note says "Applications: Bolt Action Rifles and Semi Auto Weapons rated for the latest NATO/MIL ammunition."

compared to most of the load data in the other books, they usually stop at around 55,000psi. These loads run up to 62350psi. Below is an example:

77gr HPBT TAC starting load 21.1 gr @2483fps max load 23.4gr @2759fps @54,500psi 2.260" OAL

the "NATO" loads are:

77gr HPBT TAC starting load 22.3 gr @2648fps max load 24.8gr @2902fps @61,500psi 2.260" OAL

Two things that struck me- it's nice to see load data for actual mil spec bullets (M855) as well as "NATO" loadings.

I've often wondered (and asked others) about 5.56 loads vs 223 loads. I know in factory ammunition there's a difference but until this I hadn't seen anything in reloading manuals that designated 223 vs. 5.56 loadings.

hopefully the TAC powder works well as I am pretty happy with what the company has to offer in it's load data.

http://www.ramshot.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/ramshot_handgun_rifle.pdf

I initially bought Ramshot TAC and X-terminator powder as it was recommended loads for the 6.8SPC, but never got around to testing loads for the 6.8 with Ramshot just yet.

any thoughts? If it matters, the rifle is a Lewis Machine and Tool MRP 5.56 16" chrome lined hammer forged 1:7" twist barrel.

obviously i'll load a few rounds with varying powder charges and work my way up, but it was the first time I've seen any reloading data that references NATO spec loadings...
 
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