Seating Depth & Magazine Capacity

[bill123]

Probably not. But + or - 0.1gr for accuracy might be worth it. If you fire 3- 3rnd groups that is enough so < ten shots to see if it's worth chasing. I would try to shoot at least 300 yards for those 9 shots. After finding the charge weight I would consider seating a little deeper (0.010"?) to see if that changes.

Another approach is to use the Hybrids. The members here claim they are a lot less sensitive to seating depth. So at least you might get really decent hunting loads that feed through the mag.

Just a thought...

KB

Thanks KB. Unfortunately I already loaded up the full test. I don't have access to a 300yd range so I've been doing OCW testing at 100 along w/a chronograph. What looks like my node gave me the following: 46.4gr Varget (7/16" group; SD: 2; ES:6; Avg. Vel: 2899) and 46.6gr Varget (3/8" group; SD: 5; ES:12; Avg. Vel: 2911). I'll be doing the new test w/a OAL of 2.81". I'll post a comparison of the 2 tests. I just ordered Berger 175 OTM Tactical to try as well. They are supposed to be indifferent to seating depth.

 

[Kennibear]

Berger lists the top load as 44.6 grains of Varget with that bullet. You need to cut back to 44.6 at least and start back up. 2 grains over book is one thing in a 30-378 Weatherby but quite another in 308. A 4.5% overload is a bunch. If you continue check every round for pressure. I am somewhat surprised you could go that high.

KB

 

[bill123]

Berger lists the top load as 44.6 grains of Varget with that bullet. You need to cut back to 44.6 at least and start back up. 2 grains over book is one thing in a 30-378 Weatherby but quite another in 308. A 4.5% overload is a bunch. If you continue check every round for pressure. I am somewhat surprised you could go that high.

KB

KB-
I took my lead for max range from German Salazar's article here: The Rifleman's Journal: Reloading: Western Shooters' Pet Loads for Long Range

I did the following work up which I think is pretty conservative, and looked for pressure signs with each shot:

4 rounds - 1 each of: 43.0, 43.5, 44.0, 44.5 Varget
4 round - 45.0 gr Varget
4 round - 45.2 "
4 round - 45.4 "
4 round - 45.6 "
4 round - 45.8 "
4 round - 46.0 "
4 round - 46.2 "
4 round - 46.4 "
4 round - 46.6 "
4 round - 46.8 "

Also, my gunsmith, who had shot my rifle with other loads recommended 45-46 grains of Varget. Otherwise I would have started lower.