So I recently just started getting into reloading, I reloaded 5 223 shells as my first batch and I thought that they seemed quite full. I was just wondering if they are suppose to be this full, I'm using imr 4320. If anyone could help me that would be great. I don't want to fire them or reload anything else before I know if I made these rounds correctly.
Hodgdon load data for 55gr bullet is a starting load of 23.5gr and a max of 26.1gr which they show as a compressed load. So yes, I bet 25.8 grains is pretty full and I think you need to back it down to the starting load for whatever data source you are using.
Right now I'm using 3 different powders and 3 different bullets for my 1:9 AR. I developed loads for each bullet starting at the low end. I got my best groupings about midrange.
I don't know what you are shooting it in, but my AR cycles fine with starting loads of BL-C2 and a 55gr FMJ. What you don't want to do is start out near full power, you start low and work up while watching for signs of excess pressure.
Hornady 9th has that powder listed for non-service rifles. Lyman 49th, Lee 2nd has that powder on the near upper end, not lower end of the range, but for some grains, 25.8 is over the top. Too many variables with not enough info. But be cautious with high twist rate vs hot load vs type of bullet in an ar so you don't leave some pieces in the barrel that creates grief on the following round. SteveM mentions start grain. Good advice.
I don't know what bullet weight you're using but the Hodgdon website shows a starting charge weight of 22.1 grn and a max charge weight of 26.1 grn compressed, through a range of three different bullets. 25.8 is pretty close to their max. I'd pull them apart and start over. Where did you acquire this data?
In order to provide you with some meaningful and SAFE advice, a few details from you would be helpful:
What type of bullets are you using and their weight?
What is your reloading data source? Hopefully it's not "Joe" from some forum discussion group telling you that it's his favorite load and it's great!
What platform is your .223 gun? (AR-15, single shot bolt action, etc) This will determine whether you need to crimp or not.
Are you using new brass or used? Did you check the case length before loading and trim if necessary so your crimps will be uniform and your rounds have the proper OAL? If you trimmed your cases, what length did you trim to?
If using an AR, what overall length are you seating your bullets to to avoid proper cartridge feeding and avoiding jamming?
Do you hear the resounding consensus of advice here......... STOP and start over and make sure you know exactly what you are doing.
As an example, the newest Hornady 9th edition reloading manual has loads for six .223 bullet weights, they only call out IMR4320 for two of these bullet weights, the 52-53g and 50g bullets, both light bullets and 25.8g is at least midway up the powder range in each case.
Don't be afraid to ask even the simplest of questions. Just something to consider
The CFE has shown to need higher charges to achieve the same results that lower amounts of other powders do. Behind 55gr FMJ-BT W/C I run 25.5 grs of 8298XBR, 26 grs of BL-C2 to get 2990FPS out of a 16" 1:9 AR. With Hornady 55gr VMAX I get the same performance using 23.5grs of the 8208 and 24grs of the BL-C2.
"...I think you need to back it down to the starting load for whatever data source you are using." SteveM.
Best advise. Also it sounds like you are unfamiliar with "compressed loads" and mebbe need to read up on the finer points of reloading; The ABCs of Reloading is a good start...
One more consideration: What kind of brass are you using? Military spec brass is thicker so won't hold as much powder. Reloading manuals will recommend reduced loads for military brass.
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