Developing Dependable Reloads

WHENEVER I get a new rifle and set it up with a mount, scope, and sling, the next step is to develop a good load for it. Chances are you don't have pressure-measuring equipment, but the loads in modern loading manuals were likely developed using pressure barrels and a force transducer which measures chamber pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI). The only manual that still lists loads in CUP (copper units of pressure) is Hodgdon. Most of the maximum loads listed produce the same pressure level, and the ones that produce the highest velocity are the ones which should gain your attention.

Don't be overly impressed by a load that is listed with 30 or 50 or even 100 fps more velocity than the others because it may not really offer much edge in your rifle, because it is all but impossible to fine-tune a load Ito fire a string of shots that produces average pressure identical with other powders. Obviously when the pressures vary slightly, so, too will the velocities. A powder generating highest velocity means it is best suited to the cartridge and bullet weight. So, it is the best choice - not by accident; it’s derived from tested data.

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