Favorite powder for 6.5-284?

[sambo3006]

I picked up a Match Grade Machine stainless 27" 1-8 twist heavy barrel in 6.5-284 for my Encore. I'm probably going to run some 142 gr SMK's or the 130 or 140 gr JLK VLD's in it. Which powder is most likely to give me the best combo of velocity and accuracy? What is a reasonable velocity expectation with the 140-142? 3050ish fps?

Thanks!

Sam

[gun_rat82]

try 50-51 grs of RL19 or RL22, IMR 4831sc works well also

[winmagman]

I've used IMR 4831, Re 22, H1000, H4831, and will soon be trying Re 17. Accurate velocity with the 140 class bullets is usually between 2920 and 2980.

Chris

[Varmint Hunter]

I've had the best results with 4350 and 4831. Velocities around 3,000 ft/sec are usually considered about max for the 140 class bullets.

[Derek M.]

Originally Posted by sambo3006

I picked up a Match Grade Machine stainless 27" 1-8 twist heavy barrel in 6.5-284 for my Encore. I'm probably going to run some 142 gr SMK's or the 130 or 140 gr JLK VLD's in it. Which powder is most likely to give me the best combo of velocity and accuracy? What is a reasonable velocity expectation with the 140-142? 3050ish fps?

Thanks!

Sam

Sam, I suggest you read this: 6.5-284 Cartridge Guide

Looks like the bulk of the benchers use either H4350 or H4831SC.

That said, don't forget that Vihtavuori N160 and N165 have been top choices for this caliber for many shooters.

I was told the guys at Best of the West have been using up to 59.0 grains of Retumbo, but they may go back to H1000. These powders are used with the 140 Berger VLD.

I am curious as to how well H414 and Ramshot magnum would work.

[6mm Shooter]

I shoot 123gr scenars at 3215fps out of a 26" 1-9twist using N560.

[sambo3006]

I think I am going to try IMR 7828, as it is faster than Retumbo and H1000 and I have a lot of it. Am hoping that it will shoot well as it does wonderfully in several different cartridges I load for. I did do some more reading and agree that my original velocity estimate was a bit generous. Sounds like 2950 is more like it. Thanks guys!