Load help for 6.5-284 w/140 SMK

[omega1]

I have a 6.5-284 project that will be done in a few weeks and I am hoping to avoid a lot of the testing to find a good load. This is my first 6.5-284 and I will be working with Nosler brass and the 140gr. SMK. I know the 6.5-284 has a reputation of being hard on barrels so a I don't have to have the fastest load out there as long as it is accurate to about 700 -800 yards. It will have a 1-8" twist Krieger at 28" Thanks for any help.

 

[ICANHITHIMMAN]

You realy cant avoid load work up man, every rifle is diffrent as is the shooter and componets, what works for me may not work for you. We all react to recoil in diffrent way. I guess what I'm saying is shoot a ladder test after you gather qualty componits and build your drop table.

If you new to reloading ask alot of questions

Jon

 

[omega1]

I appreciate the input but I have been reloading for 34 years and have found that real world anecdotal information goes a long way. I was hoping to find the equivalent to the likes of the 6BR load of 30 grains of Varget and the 107 grain SMK in a 1-8" twist barrel or the .308 load of 45 grains of Varget and the 168 grain SMK in a 1-11" barrel. Usually takes very little "tweaking" from these start points.

 

[Greyfox]

A popular and proven starting point would be 51.5gr of H4831sc, Fed Match Primers. Your variables will be fine tuning powder weight and bullet seating depth. Try seating depths initially from, at the lands to .10 out, in .025 increments. Watch your pressure signs when close to the lands. Another good combo is 57-59gr of Retumbo with Fed 215 primers. I would also try the 140gr Bergers. Both my rifles shoot these exceptionally well with 59 gr of Retumbo, 215 Fed primers, and the bullet seated .075 out of the lands, I get velocities in the 2950-2975 range and sub .5moa groups.
Good Luck!

 

[forsyth793]

The H4831sc load is an excellent choice. Vit N160 is a good alternate........

 

[Boss Hoss]

For 1K competition I use Lapua prepared brass and the 142 SMK, 215M primers and between 48.8 and 49.5 grs of H4350. ES in single digits to high teens around 2950.

Do not know anyone who I shoot with that uses the 140 SMK nor have I seen anyone shooting it.

 

[JOWEL]

The H4831sc load is an excellent choice. Vit N160 is a good alternate........

been working with various 6.5x284 and for sure will work with h4831sc, try also hybrid 100 v, excelent powders.
We have build them in short and long remys actions, worked much better in the
long action you can leave those 142 long way out.
good luck with your build up.

 

[omega1]

Thanks so much for the great information. I do have some H4831sc and 4350 on my shelf now that I can try. I have around 500 140 grain SMK that I need to use up and then it sounds like I should move to the 142 grain. Good thing I have a .260 that I can use the 140s in also.
Thanks again, I always get great information here. Built a .338 Edge a while back and the first load I tried from information I got here is the one I now use on a regular basis.