Austin
Well-Known Member
Not a problem. I have not chrono'd any of the 162's or 168's just yet. I have only worked up a couple loads that are safe and will chrono after the stock work is done. The problem with the hang-fire was this: I started out low on the 870 at around 80grs. This falls around 70% of the case capacity. At these levels, I had consistent hang fires. After working up to about 97.5grs., there was a noticable decrease in hang fire. I tried two different primers. The CCI250, and the Fed 215. Both offered no improvement. As I worked up past the 85% capacity mark, hangfires were fewer and further between. As I neared 88% (around 102grs.), hang-fires pretty much went away. Another thing that helped somewhat on the lighter charges was to warm them by keeping them inside my jacket pocket next to my body rather than out on the bench where freezing cold air is blowing right on them. But, this did not make THAT much difference. So, between 102.5 and 105grs is pretty much the limit. I pushed at 168gr SMK with 109.0grs H870 and began to see extractor/ejector marks on head and the primers began to crater at this pressure. As for the magazine issue, I did have not put one in as of yet. I do know this though: The cartridge will NOT fit in a blind magazine without some work. I designed it pretty much as a single shot rifle. I considered adding a magazine, which could be easily done, but I really never have liked magazines. Just one more thing for me to lose! Anyhow, it seems to be a promising cartridge and it has been a definite challenge and not an inexpensive undertaking either. I've tackled a number of wildcats, but this one would have to take the cake thus far. It's much different than working with a wildcat for which there is absolutely no data out available. What I wouldn't give for a copper crusher! Hope this answered your questions!
TH
TH