Realoader 22 and Reloader 25

AtownBcat

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I'm currently working up a couple loads for two different 300WM's using RE-22. I know that alot of you have had great results using this powder with your 300WM. I did however run across another thread where a few of you said you would avoid these powders because the tend to be temp sensitive. I would really like to hear from both sides. If you love these powders or if you dont. I would also like to get some "real" numbers as far as what are the changes you delt with as the temp changed.

Thanks
Ryan
 
Here is a real number on lot to lot variance.

6.5-06AI had to drop over 4.5 whole grains to keep from blowing primers and breaking trigger sears from blowback. Three triggers in two days at a competition convinced me.

Use RL22 at your own risk IMO. It is widely known that they are temp sensitive, but hey your gun.

Suggest you buy MRP and MRP2 to replace RL22 and 25 but that is just me. Graf and Black Hills both sell MRP

BH
 
I've had great luck using RL22. Maybe it's because I usually work up my loads during the summer when it's around 80 degrees. Then when I hunt, it's cooler all the way to below zero. I think most have problems when it get hotter out than when they worked up their loads. All I know is that I'm not about to change now. BTW, my loads that I worked up during 80 degree weather worked well enough in sub zero temps to kill and elk at 623 yds. That's good enough for me.
 
I love both of these powders---use them with very good results. Will say that maybe the lot to lot varaition is more of an issue than some other powders but that is why I buy "enough" of the same lot to last quite a while.
 
Suggest you buy MRP and MRP2 to replace RL22 and 25 but that is just me. Graf and Black Hills both sell MRP

BH

BH,
What's the story on MRP and MRP2? Are they the same as RL22 and RL25, but manufactured by a different outfit? Or simply similar burn rates as RL22 and RL25?
 
AtownBcat,
I think it's better now than what it used to be or at least I'm smarter about it now. I still use quiet a bit of it and as a matter of fact found an accurate load for my .300WinMag yesterday.
I remember in July 2001 I worked up some 180gn loads for a .300WinMag Sendero that I owned using RL22 and Fed 215LRM's.
I had changed 1lb containers but didn't reduce and work up. The first load (74.5) averaged 3198fps and accuracy went .888". The velocity of those three should have gotten my attention. The next three (75.5)were pushing the bullet past .300 Weatherby and RUM velocities (3253fps). Still I didn't stop and my buddy left the shooting area as I was determined to proceed with my loads. On the final three (76.5), the accuracy was .6" and velocity was 3300fps, the rifle kicked like the proverbial mule and sounded like a howitzer! I had to beat the bolt open each time with lineman pliers! Not one of my brightest moments.
At that time in my life I don't think anyone had ever told me, nor had I read anywhere, that your velocity should not exceed the manuals velocities. I know better now and look for this in addition to various other pressure signs.
I know this is a bit long winded but I had to share that. Other than that one time I have never had a problem with it and have had great accuracy with it. JohnnyK.

PS. The load I used yesterday was 180gn Nosler Ballistic Tip, 75.5gn RL22, CCI BR2. Accuracy ran sub 1/2" and velocity averaged 3160fps. I tried this bullet/powder months ago with Rem 9.5M and WLRM primers and accuracy ran 1" or worse.
 
Re: Reloader 22 and Reloader 25

this is whats hard about this sport...there can be input from polar ends of the spectrum and neither one is wrong. So EVERYTIME i go to a new can of powder i have to start the process all over again?!?
 
If you're looking for temperature stable powder the Hodgen Extreme powders like H 4831 and H1000 are the best by far.
Currently I'm testing Magnum and MagPro in my 7mm Rem Mag. I'll have to get back to you on that.

RL22 was the most accurate powder in my 300WM Browning. But i needed to have a summer and a winter loading for it. Otherwise the rifle shot to different points on the target. If I used my 'summer ammo' in the cold ( 20* F) the group was as much as 2 inches from the bullseye. So if you like a RL22 or 25 for hunting, just deal with it. All it takes is more trigger time and how bad could that be? :D


JM .02
 
AtownBcat,
It is advised by all the reloading manuals and by alot of folks on here, me included, to drop 10% and start again, when you change lots. It frustrated me at first, but I try to look at it differently. Like any good relationship you have to constantly work at it! :)
The best way around this is to buy in quantity. If I'm near the end of any powder I try and find at least two 1lb cans of it in my search (same lot #). This includes IMR, Hodgdon and Winchester. The Viht powders used to come in 2lb jugs, but I haven't bought any of those powders in a few years. I see them (Viht) in cute, little 1lb bottles now. The 8lb jugs seem like the best idea, but the family budget doesn't allow that. :) JohnnyK.
 
I am going to be loading some new Berger bullets

115gr in 25-06
150gr in 270 WSM
168 gr in 7mmRM


Previously, I used Magpro and H4350 but I want a slower powder to try. I have never been real happy with the accuracy I get with the magpro, but the velocities have been good. However, these bergers are heavier than I have used in any of these calibers.

Im torn between the Reloader 22 and Reloader 25.
 
I am going to be loading some new Berger bullets

115gr in 25-06
150gr in 270 WSM
168 gr in 7mmRM
Im torn between the Reloader 22 and Reloader 25.

RL 25 can be a little tricky to use. It only likes the top 1/2 of the loading chart or the neck won't properly seal in the chamber, creating a lot of carbon staining and gunk.
Also it's more sensitive to which primer you use.

RL 22 is MUCH easier to use working up loads.
and the accuracy is usually amazing.
So of the two, RL 22 gets my vote.

My 270 WSM loves 68 grains of H 1000, WLR, 150 AB. 2960 FPS 3 shots in a dime.
Also 70 grains of Ramshot MAGNUM, WLR, 150 AB. 3050 FPS. 3 shots in a quarter.
My 7mm RM was pretty happy with H 1000 also but not like the 270 WSM. :D

Good luck with the powder hunting.
I'm still trying to find the 'magic' powder for my 7mm RM. gun)


My270 WSM has a fairly tight chamber.
Your mileage may differ.
JM .02
 
Re: Reloader 22 and Reloader 25

this is whats hard about this sport...there can be input from polar ends of the spectrum and neither one is wrong. So EVERYTIME i go to a new can of powder i have to start the process all over again?!?

Yep, particularily if you buy 1 lb cans of temp sensitive powders.

If you find a lot that works, go back and buy a bunch of it to keep from doing that or use something other than temp sensitive powders.

that highlights the importance of a chrono too, to monitor MV and see if one lot is similar to the old lot.

BH
 
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