223 Rem - 40gr Nosler Ballistic Tip with RL7 & Benchmark

Published on February 20, 2018
Duration: 23:46

This video details the reloading process for .223 Remington using 40gr Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint bullets with Alliant Reloder 7 and Hodgdon Benchmark powders. Reloder 7 demonstrated exceptional accuracy, producing groups around 0.4 inches with velocities up to 3341 FPS. Benchmark offered higher velocities, reaching 3545 FPS, with a best group of 0.366 inches, though it showed slight pressure signs at higher charges.

Quick Summary

For .223 Remington with 40gr Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint bullets, Alliant Reloder 7 offers exceptional accuracy, producing groups around 0.4 inches. Hodgdon Benchmark provides higher velocities, reaching over 3500 FPS, but may show pressure signs at maximum charges. Both are effective, with Reloder 7 favored for precision.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Component Selection
  2. 01:12Load Data & Brass Prep
  3. 04:00Loading Process & Load Density
  4. 06:45Range Setup & Initial Testing
  5. 09:25Reloder 7 Performance Analysis
  6. 12:08Benchmark Performance & Pressure Signs
  7. 13:29Final Analysis & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Which powder performed better for accuracy with 40gr Nosler Ballistic Tips in .223 Remington?

Alliant Reloder 7 demonstrated exceptional accuracy, consistently producing groups around 0.4 inches. While Hodgdon Benchmark achieved a slightly better single group of 0.366 inches, Reloder 7 offered more consistent accuracy across its tested charge range for this specific bullet weight and caliber.

What were the key differences in performance between Reloder 7 and Benchmark for .223 Remington 40gr loads?

Reloder 7 excelled in accuracy, delivering very tight groups. Benchmark provided higher velocities, reaching over 3500 FPS, but showed slight pressure signs at its maximum charges. Both powders are viable, with Reloder 7 favored for precision and Benchmark for speed.

What is the recommended overall length (OAL) for 40gr Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint bullets in .223 Remington?

The recommended overall length for 40gr Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint bullets in .223 Remington, as tested in this video, is 2.260 inches. This length was used with both Reloder 7 and Benchmark powders.

Are there any specific considerations when reloading 40gr Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint bullets?

Yes, these bullets have thin jackets and lack a cannelure. It's advised not to crimp them to avoid damage. Also, be mindful of load density, as some powders like Benchmark can fill the case significantly at higher charges.

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