.223 load

[U.S. Patriot]

I'm waiting on my equipment to get here to make up my first test batch. I'll be reloading using 62 grain bullets. Hodgdon's website does not have load data for 62 grain, only 63 grain. The Lyman manual does not as well. Hodgdon recommends a starting load of 24.5 grains and a maximum load of 26.4 for a 63 grain bullet, using Varget. I was thinking I would start with 25 grains. Do you all think that is wise, or should I tune the charge down a bit?

 

[sloughfoot]

I would start at 24.5 and I'll bet you stop near the 25 grain point. Just a guess though...

 

[msd]

Have to agree with sloughfoot. Weigh your bullets, bet you'll get some at 62 and up to 62.5. I'd say close enough to use that loading data.
But me personally wouldn't go over 26 gr mark. At 25.5 I'd be watching real close for pressure signs

 

[Leo]

As you approach the top loads on a rifle, flat base verses boat tail design affects pressure. The advice that has been given is good. Stay in the bottom 1/2 of the data you have until you you establish how the load reacts in your rifle.

 

[msd]

What brand of bullet are you using?

 

[U.S. Patriot]

What brand of bullet are you using?

62 grain Armscor, a friend gave me 100 to try.

 

[msd]

Try a google search for Armscor bullet reloading data. It brings up seversl sites using the 62gr bullet with loads ect.

 

[1911Shooter]

I would also stay at the low end of that range. What type rifle are you loading for? I know I load a 55gr hornady bullet with 24 grs of benchmark powder for my AR and I have had great luck with that load.

 

[Litlratt]

If the starting load is 24.5, it is highly unlikely that you will have any issues with 25.
My experiences with the AR in .223 is that the first indicator of over pressure is cycling/extraction.

 

[Mephitical]

I'm reloading and shooting 62 grain bullets through my AR at 25 grains of Varget with no issues. I've shot over 200 rounds so far.