I apologize your gonna run the Blackjacks, RL26 may very well be your best bet
25-284 build
- Thread starter lee31
- Start date
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VLD Pilot
Well-Known Member
Any idea on a starting charge weight for the 115-120s. Probably can look at 25-06 data and be close enough to be safe I'm guessing.
I would think so
willfrye027
Well-Known Member
I just ordered a 25x284 prefit with a 1:7.5, will be interesting to see what loads are working well for guys. Not a ton of load data out there yet. Scored some Peterson 6.5x284 brass hopefully don't end up needing to neck turn
VLD Pilot
Well-Known Member
There's alot of load data that members have that shoot that cartridge. If any could post a few starting loads ( not looking for any honey loads) for where to begin. I can run up to pressure and find accuracy along the way. It's just nice having a safe reasonable place to start.
willfrye027
Well-Known Member
How was that Peterson brass compared to lapua? Are the necks much thicker?
I had 284 peterson prior to their release of 6.5x284. So it was a turn then neck down. But yes it was thicker. I still had to turn the Lapua 6.5x284 a half thou per side for my personal desired clearance of 5k w/ loaded vs chamber. It's good brass but doesn't make the same velocity as lapua. I think the case heads are harder but the web area isn't as strong as lapua.
lee31
Well-Known Member
Start around 48 grains with h4831sc and 49 RL26 for the 131s. Do a ladder test from there til you hit pressure. I'd start even lower with the 120s as they have a lot more bearing surface.
VLD Pilot
Well-Known Member
Thanks. That helps.
Frank in the Laurels
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In all honestly, what can any of those mentioned do that the 75 year old 25/06 has been doing for decades with no pain, anxiety or expense...not much experimentation done in .257 because of the limiting bullet offerings overall. Either way, good luck, have fun and hopefully someone will make a few more bullets for .257...
VLD Pilot
Well-Known Member
Probably nothing. Accuracy may be better as the shorter fatter longer neck cartridges seem to have that accuracy edge. All things 284 seem very accurate. That's why I'm building mine. That and because I have a truck load of Lapua 6.5-284 brass. No real advantage otherwise IMO. Just gonna be a fun new rifle to have.
willfrye027
Well-Known Member
Why? Because it will fit in my tikka magazine while allowing me to seat the bullet way out of the case and get close to the lands..on a standard bolt face
As for options now we have the 131gr blackjack (waiting on the next run of bullets of course), 135gr Berger LRHT (very available right now), 133gr Berger soon, and a variety of copper/mono options. Hopefully more to come soon..
What are you shooting ?
