22/284 load info
I picked up a old 40X chambered for the barrel burning 22/284 Winchester and looking for a few starter loads for mid weight bullets preferably the 69 SMK.....
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mrbruce,
The one I tested was a 26" barrel with the throat cut to take a 2.700" OAL. My chamber was cut tight to Lapua brass measurements. If I ever did this again, I'd use a 30" barrel in order to accommodate a couple of set backs and get a better selection of powders. Watch your pressure as it mounts quickly.
Starting:
53.5 gr. Re-25 (mine topped out at 58.0 but no guarantees for yours)
56.5 gr. Retumbo
57.0 gr. Ramshot Magnum
This case screams for the ultra-heavy bullets of 80 gr. and 90 gr. but the limit is the twist rate. If it's a factory rifle, the twist might not be up to the task. Have you looked at the throat yet?
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Yes I have checked the throat out with my Hawkeye, and surprised as all get out when I saw that it has not been fired hardly at all. Not a mark on the start of the rifling at all...
I was thinking of starting out with 50 grains of RL-25 with the 69gr SMK and your info tells me thats a safe starter for even the 80 SMK..
It's a 8 twist measured 28 inch SS Lilja barrel, and I believe Neil Jones set it up....
Thanks as usual for the help on this one............0 -
mrbruce,
"Not a mark on the start of the rifling at all..."
"It's a 8 twist measured 28 inch SS Lilja barrel, and I believe Neil Jones set it up...."
It seems you've happened upon a really excellent project! What a find! Dan makes a great barrel and takes the time to lap them correctly. His twist rate is computer controlled and is supposed to be about as accurate as is possible. The SS and 1:8" twist is terrific for being able to use the heavier bullets if or when you decide that it's appropriate. I like to start with the 68 gr. Hornady Match and the 69 gr. Match Kings for lots of smaller cartridges and find that they are capable of extremely good accuracy.
If you do decide to try some of the heavyweights, the velocity that this cartridge is capable of producing will even allow for the 90 gr. Sierra MK (due to the tangent ogive) if you want to try them. It could be iffy unless you stick to the upper end of the range but they should perform. I know the 85 gr. Berger VLDs will do well.
This project will provide a bunch of fun, Enjoy!
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