No load data for a chosen bullet, now what?

[greggc1960]

Folks, I would like some assistance. I'm certain this has been covered some where, at some point in this wonderful, informative, and yes, entertaining site, but I can not seem to locate the answer to this question: how would you go about SAFELY working up load without any published data? I'm wanting to load the Hornady 285gr BTHP for the 338Lapua Magnum in my 338-378 Weatherby, but I have not found a listing for this application. I think Hodgdon listed a 265gr and 275gr bullet, for the Weatherby, but not the 285. I'm having a difficult time with this; the two cartridges use the same diameter slug, and I'm pretty sure that the bullets don't care which name is used on them. Where do I start? Thinking at the upper end for a given powder of the bullet closest in weight. Am I on track here, or all wrong? I would appreciate some insight from more experienced loaders here.

 

[Tube Man]

I have always had good luck calling and or emailing the bullet manufacturer or powder manufacturer. Everyone I have talked to has been very nice and very knowledgable.

 

[greggc1960]

Well, darn that is WAY too simple!! Seriously, that is what I will do. Thank you, sir. Feeling kinda sheepish....

 

[Lefty7mmstw]

If they don't have data simply run her up from another slug's data of similar weight.

 

[greggc1960]

If they don't have data simply run her up from another slug's data of similar weight.

Well, I fired off an email last nite to see what the good folks at Hornady have to say. If they should decline to respond before I get ready, I'll try something like what your saying.
You say similar weight; the closest "similar" I see for that cartridge is 10grs lighter. Do you think I can start at the upper lmit for the lighter bullet? Thanks again.

 

[rcairflr]

Well, I fired off an email last nite to see what the good folks at Hornady have to say. If they should decline to respond before I get ready, I'll try something like what your saying.
You say similar weight; the closest "similar" I see for that cartridge is 10grs lighter. Do you think I can start at the upper lmit for the lighter bullet? Thanks again.

The safe bet is to start at lower to mid range for the bullet/powder.

 

[FEENIX]

Check out (or join) the Weatherby forum like this ... http://www.weatherby.dk/showthread.php?5983-best-bullets-for-a-338-378-for-target-shoting or contact BROZ, he's a mod there. Maybe he'll chime in.

 

[Lefty7mmstw]

Well, I fired off an email last nite to see what the good folks at Hornady have to say. If they should decline to respond before I get ready, I'll try something like what your saying.
You say similar weight; the closest "similar" I see for that cartridge is 10grs lighter. Do you think I can start at the upper lmit for the lighter bullet? Thanks again.

With the small % weight difference between 275 gr and 285 gr I'd say that bullet construction/bearing surface differences will probably be more of an issue between the pills than the extra 10gr load as far as pressure is concerned. I'd simply start 10% down from the top for the 275 and expect to fall a couple of % down at top charge.

 

[greggc1960]

With the small % weight difference between 275 gr and 285 gr I'd say that bullet construction/bearing surface differences will probably be more of an issue between the pills than the extra 10gr load as far as pressure is concerned. I'd simply start 10% down from the top for the 275 and expect to fall a couple of % down at top charge.

Good information. Thanks alot, everyone.