5.56 & 223 Plinking Load with 62gr SS109

Published on December 22, 2016
Duration: 59:17

This video details the process of developing a cost-effective plinking load for 5.56/.223 Remington using 62gr SS109 bullets. It covers component selection, brass preparation including military crimp removal and small base resizing, powder charging with IMR-4895 and CFE 223, and bullet seating. Range testing revealed IMR-4895 as the superior powder for this bullet, achieving good accuracy at 24.2 grains.

Quick Summary

For a budget-friendly 5.56/.223 plinking load using 62gr SS109 bullets, IMR-4895 powder is recommended. A charge of 24.2 grains, seated to 2.245 inches OAL, yielded a 0.95-inch group in testing. This load costs approximately 23 cents per round.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Budget Plinking Load Goal
  2. 00:43Component Selection: 62gr SS109 Bullets & S&B Primers
  3. 02:47Powder & Brass: IMR-4895, CFE 223, Federal Brass
  4. 06:10Cost Analysis Per Round
  5. 08:35Brass Prep: Small Base Resizing
  6. 12:24Crimp Removal & Case Trimming
  7. 18:01Priming & Powder Charging
  8. 22:24Bullet Seating & Crimping
  9. 24:47Range Testing: IMR-4895 vs CFE 223 Accuracy
  10. 31:32Conclusion & Future Plans

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended powders for a 62gr SS109 plinking load in 5.56/.223?

The video tested IMR-4895 and Hodgdon CFE 223. Range testing indicated IMR-4895 was superior for this bullet weight, achieving better accuracy compared to CFE 223 across the tested charge ranges.

What is the optimal charge weight for IMR-4895 with 62gr SS109 bullets?

Based on the testing, a charge of 24.2 grains of IMR-4895 with a 62gr SS109 bullet seated to 2.245 inches OAL produced a 0.95-inch group. The speaker plans further testing up to 25.0 grains.

Why use a small base sizing die for AR-15 reloads?

A small base die resizes the cartridge case diameter slightly smaller than standard. This ensures reliable chambering in semi-automatic rifles like the AR-15, which can have tighter tolerances, especially when using previously fired brass.

How much does a reloaded 5.56/.223 plinking round cost?

The speaker calculated the cost per round to be approximately 23 cents, based on bulk component pricing: around 11 cents for the bullet, 3 cents for the primer, and 9 cents for the powder.

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