Working up a load.

[T-Man]

So I've started hanloading finally.
I've loaded up a few rounds at the low end of the velocity spectrum.
165 gr. Hornady interlocks
Reloader 15 (36.5 grains, or 2.58cc's)
Should be good for 2200 fps or so.

I want to build up my load for more velocity, but was wondering how big a step should I take at a time? How many grains or cc's of a jump per increase is standard?

I can't wait to try out my new rounds, but I would like to have a few to try before I go to the range.

All help is appreciated.
Trevor

ps: I only have the one type of powder.

[Cariboo]

Are you using a scale or the Lee dippers?

This is for your 308 eh?


If using a scale you have a fair say to go until you see maximum loads.


Hornady lists a maximum of 44.3 grains of Reloder 15 under the 165 bullet in a 308.

If it was me loading I would go from 36.5 to 40.5 in one grain increments. from that point on I would drop back to 1/2 grain increments. If you get to the maximum load without signs of excessive pressure stay there. (Once you get a bit of experience you can judge if you want to push the load a bit further)

Also, take a sharpie marker and list the powder charge on each case as you load them to avoid confusion later.

[T-Man]

Yes this is for my .308.

I only have one dipper (came with the kit--28cc) and a scale.
I was thinking about buying a set of dippers, so I can move along a little faster, but using the scale is still ok and fun.

I haven't shot my reloads yet, but will be soon as I just got my keys to the range.

When you work up a load, do you load 5, 10, 20 cases of one charge---shoot it and then start all over again?
How many is enough to evaluate success? (I've got 9 to try so far.)

I know I'm just looking to get factory velocity (for now) and hopefully better accuracy.....and the satisfaction of loading my own.

I also only have the manual written by Richard Lee.
I'm thinking I should get another. Any advice on which one? Is Hornady a good choice?

Sorry for all the questions Cariboo, but I'm new at this.

Trevor

[chola]

I will usually make up 3 rounds of each powder charge.......that way I can see roughly what the groups look like on the paper

The Nosler Manual is very good and the Hornadays are great as well

There are a bunch of powder manufacturers that have load data listed on the website...like Hogdon and IMR

Here is a great links page with all kinds os guns and goodies..

http://members.monarch.net/forest/riflechair/links.htm

[Cariboo]

Originally Posted by chola

I will usually make up 3 rounds of each powder charge.......that way I can see roughly what the groups look like on the paper

Ditto!

I usually take 15 or 18 cases and make up 3 cases with each powder charge. (5 or 6 different charges)

If the accuracy of any given load looks promising I will then take and load 9 cases with that charge and shoot 3 groups of 3. If the accuracy looks to be holding I will sight in my rifle to that load and go hunting!