Reloading The Red Hot 26 Nosler
THE compelling reason for using a magnum case is to gain more velocity from it than is possible with a standard case of that bore diameter with a certain bullet - or perhaps more than one bullet. We do this so we can get a flatter trajectory, and in the case of the big game hunter, more striking energy way out yonder where the game is.
When reloading magnum cartridges powder charges should never be reduced below the listed starting loads and that the best accuracy tends to come with near or maximum loads. Knowing this, after reading some commentary about the big overbore Nosler 26 round, I was confident to tackle working up loads for this new high performance 6.5mm.
Like other large small-bore magnum cases the 26 Nosler is not overly sensitive to small changes in powder charge and the Nosler Manual lists only minor increases in velocity with the addition of four grains to heavy charges of suitable ultra-slow powders like AR2217, AR2218, and Alliant RE-33.
Most 6.5mm magnums are not tack-drivers at 100 yards, but after developing your best handload don't give up on it. Try it at 200 yards and you may be pleasantly surprised. This is a feature of 6.5mm magnums that shoot
