6.5 PRC - 140gr Hornady BTHP and Reloder 26

Published on June 20, 2022
Duration: 32:25

This video details the process of reloading 6.5 PRC ammunition, focusing on the use of a serviced Redding sizing die. It covers case preparation, sizing techniques to achieve proper shoulder bump, and initial load development with Hornady 140gr BTHP bullets and Reloder 26 powder. The instructor also addresses issues with brass consistency and provides insights into setting up dies for optimal performance.

Quick Summary

Reloading 6.5 PRC brass with a Redding sizing die involves careful case preparation, including annealing and lubrication. The goal is to achieve a shoulder bump of 0.001-0.002 inches for reliable chambering. Load development with 140gr bullets and Reloder 26 powder aims for velocities around 3000 fps, with overall cartridge lengths typically around 2.930 inches.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 6.5 PRC Reloading Project
  2. 00:10Addressing Redding Sizing Die Issues
  3. 01:07Borescope Inspection of Sizing Die
  4. 01:23SilencerCo Omega Suppressor Service Update
  5. 02:28Detailed Look at Sizing Die Polish
  6. 03:38Understanding 'Die Seasoning'
  7. 04:06Testing the Repaired Redding Sizing Die
  8. 04:10Preparing Hornady Brass for Sizing
  9. 05:11Sizing Cases on the Redding T7 Press
  10. 06:34Measuring Shoulder Bump
  11. 07:44Installing Expander Ball and Neck Sizing
  12. 09:17Fine-Tuning Shoulder Bump Adjustment
  13. 10:29Sizing 50 Pieces of Hornady Brass
  14. 10:43Switching to Nozzler Brass
  15. 11:56Inconsistencies with Nozzler Brass
  16. 13:15Sizing Die Performance Summary
  17. 13:27Case Trimming and Length Variation
  18. 14:18Setting Up Case Trimmer
  19. 14:44Primer Pockets After Firing
  20. 14:55Load Data Research for 6.5 PRC
  21. 15:53Initial Load Development Strategy
  22. 16:22Measuring Overall Cartridge Length
  23. 19:12Setting Up the Redding Competition Seater Die
  24. 20:46Adjusting Seater Die for Target Length
  25. 21:41Case Fill and Seating Consistency
  26. 22:24Marking Cartridges by Charge Weight
  27. 22:37Range Day: Savage 110 Precision Setup
  28. 23:07First Shots: 53.0 Grains Reloder 26
  29. 23:41Velocity and Group Analysis (53.0 Grains)
  30. 24:05Increasing Charge Weight: 55.5 to 57.0 Grains
  31. 24:27Shooting Higher Charges
  32. 24:45Primer Cratering Observation
  33. 25:21Next Steps: Load Groups for Accuracy
  34. 26:03Shooting Group 1: 2.930 OAL
  35. 27:18Shooting Group 2: 2.920 OAL
  36. 28:06Shooting Group 3: 2.910 OAL
  37. 29:00Post-Range Brass Inspection
  38. 29:46Group Performance vs. Load Development
  39. 30:11Shooter Comfort and Rifle Stability Issues
  40. 30:53SilencerCo Omega Suppressor Reassembly
  41. 31:42Overall Summary and Future Plans
  42. 32:11Conclusion: Redding Die Back in Service

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps for reloading 6.5 PRC brass with a Redding sizing die?

Reloading 6.5 PRC brass involves preparing cases, applying lubricant, sizing with a Redding die to achieve 0.001-0.002 inches of shoulder bump, and then expanding the neck. Careful measurement and testing in the firearm are crucial for optimal performance and safety.

What is the recommended shoulder bump for 6.5 PRC cases?

For 6.5 PRC cases, an ideal shoulder bump is typically between 0.001 and 0.002 inches. This ensures reliable chambering without excessive stress on the brass, which is especially important with dies like Redding's that lack pressure relief holes.

How does annealing affect brass during reloading?

Annealing brass softens the case neck and shoulder, making it more pliable and easier to resize. It also helps to restore the brass's elasticity, which can lead to more consistent results and prevent case head separation over multiple reloads.

What are the typical load data ranges for 140gr bullets in 6.5 PRC with Reloder 26?

Load data for 140gr bullets in 6.5 PRC with Reloder 26 varies by manufacturer. Hornady suggests up to 57.0 grains, while Barnes indicates 55.9 grains, and Sierra shows a lower maximum of 51.5 grains. Velocities can range from around 2850 fps to over 3000 fps.

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