Read the following guidelines before proceeding to the load data tables.

The load data tables represent data collected from internal ballistics software, pressure test data from certified laboratories and load data developed by us.  Start loads can be used in any rifle in good condition but the MAX FPS number must never be exceeded and must be approached as all maximum load data is approached - with caution and with checks for signs of pressure. 

 General Notes:

• Always use a magnum primer with drive band bullets. Do not crimp drive band bullets.  See the reason.

• Prepare cases properly. Do not expect good results with bad preparation. See our loading tips.

• Start-loads may produce maximum speed in some rifles. Develop loads with a chronograph.

• Develop speed first by loading one or two cartridges at the start load and one or two each  increasing in half grain increments. Use one grain increments if the bullet is over 100 grains.

• The indicated maximum speed in the tables, after adjustment with the FPS/INCH number, will closely correspond to the maximum pressure allowed for that caliber.

• In your rifle, the load that gives the maximum indicated speed is also the maximum load and it must not be exceeded.

• The powder load required to reach the MAX FPS will differ from rifle to rifle and the suggested start load will give varying speeds in different rifles.

• Do not try to adjust grouping by varying speed. Drive band bullets are relatively insensitive to tuning with speed. Groups are tuned by varying cartridge overall length (c.o.l.).

• It is therefore best to separate the two processes and to develop speed first with no regard to what grouping is.

Procedure:

• Using the start load, load the bullet with two drive bands into the case neck.

• Check if this cartridge overall length (c.o.l.) will fit in the magazine box of the rifle.  If it does not, seat the bullet deeper until the cartridge fits the magazine.

• Check if the c.o.l. will allow the cartridge to chamber. If it does, continue with speed load development.

• HV and FN bullets do not cause pressure spikes when loaded touching the rifling. See the reason for this.

• Once the desired speed is reached, load 15 rounds with that powder charge and at the maximum cartridge length possible in the rifle.

• Fire three for group. Run a dry nylon brush through the barrel and allow it to cool while the group is measured. Seat the next three rounds 0.5mm (0.02") deeper and fire for group. Repeat the process until it is established what the ideal c.o.l. is for the rifle. Use 1.0mm (0.04") steps if the bullet is over 100 grains.

Troubleshooting:

• If pressure signs occur at substantially lower speeds than the maximum speed indicated, try a propellant that is more bulky in order to reduce air space in the case and make sure a magnum primer is used. If pressure signs are still present at low speeds, have the the rifle checked for headspace, out of specification chamber size and correct bore and groove dimensions.

Should you need any information regarding load development and suitability for specific calibres - which are not to be found in the tables or if your caliber is not listed, please e-mail us.

Load Data is reviewed as components change and the tables are adjusted on an ongoing basis.  Older data is in blue and newer data is in red.