5.56 & 223 Plinking Load with 62gr SS109

Published on December 22, 2016
Duration: 59:17

This guide details the process of handloading a cost-effective 5.56/.223 plinking load, as demonstrated by Johnny's Reloading Bench. The process involves meticulous brass preparation, including crimp removal and resizing with small base dies, followed by careful powder charging, bullet seating to a specific OAL, and light crimping. The expert-level instruction emphasizes budget-conscious component selection and systematic load development for high-volume range use.

Quick Summary

Reloading a budget-friendly 5.56/.223 plinking load involves using bulk 62gr SS109 bullets and cost-effective primers. Meticulous brass preparation, including military crimp removal and resizing with a small base die, is essential. IMR-4895 powder proved superior to CFE 223 for accuracy, with a target OAL of 2.245 inches, achieving approximately 23 cents per round.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Project Goal
  2. 00:43Component Selection: Bullets and Primers
  3. 02:47Powder and Brass Selection
  4. 06:10Cost Analysis
  5. 08:35Brass Preparation Process
  6. 12:24Crimp Removal and Trimming
  7. 18:01Priming and Charging
  8. 22:24Bullet Seating and Crimping
  9. 24:47Range Testing and Results
  10. 31:32Conclusion and Future Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I reload 5.56/.223 ammunition affordably for plinking?

To reload affordably, focus on bulk components like 62gr SS109 bullets and cost-effective primers (e.g., Sellier & Bellot). Utilize range-pickup brass, but be prepared to remove military crimps. Select proven powders like IMR-4895 for good performance and value, aiming for a total cost around 23 cents per round.

What are the key steps for preparing brass for reloading 5.56/.223?

Brass preparation involves removing military crimps using a specialized tool, trimming cases to a consistent length (e.g., 1.750 inches), chamfering/deburring, and then resizing with a small base die to ensure proper chambering in semi-automatic firearms.

Which powder is better for a 62gr SS109 plinking load in a 5.56/.223?

Based on testing with a Colt LE6920, IMR-4895 demonstrated superior accuracy for the 62gr SS109 bullet compared to Hodgdon CFE 223. IMR-4895 produced a 0.95-inch group at 24.2 grains, while CFE 223 yielded larger groups.

What is the recommended OAL for a 62gr SS109 plinking load?

For a 62gr SS109 FMJBT bullet in 5.56/.223 plinking loads, an Overall Length (OAL) of 2.245 inches is recommended. This length aligns the case mouth with the bullet's cannelure for consistent seating and crimping.

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