.223 loads & Benchmark powder

[orion]

I have just acquired a Ruger 77 Target/Varmit model in .223 Rem. and would like to begin loading for it. Both my Nosler and Hornady manuals suggest that Benchmark is one of the more accurate powders to use. I have been unable to find any on S.Van.Is. Is it worth my while to pursue other sources or are there any more common powders that will also give excellent results ( plan to try bullets in the 45 - 60 gr. range ? T.I.A.

[bushrat]

I shoot a few .223's and I have had the best luck for accuracy with Vihtavouri N-133, Accurate Arms 2015-BR, Benchmark and H-322. The bullets I've had good luck with are 53gr. Sierra Matchking flat base and the 52 gr Hornady A-max but pretty much all the bullets from 45 to 55 gr usually shoot pretty darn well. The Hornady V-maxes and Nosler ballistic tips are available in most shops and most rifles will shoot them well.

[Gatehouse]

Order some through Higginsons in Ontario, or John Parsons in PoCo.

It's great for the 223.

[260_Rem]

I use Benchmark as my go-to powder for the 223

Higginons powder in Ontario is great to deal with and excellent prices.

[orion]

Thanks all - sounds like it will be worthwhile tracking some of it down.