223 Rem - 70gr Nosler RDF with 8208 XBR & X-Terminator

Published on March 6, 2018
Duration: 24:02

This video details a reloading and ballistics test of the 70gr Nosler RDF bullet in 223 Remington. The presenter, with clear expertise in reloading and ballistics, compares the performance of Ramshot X-Terminator and IMR 8208 XBR powders. The test highlights significant differences in accuracy and pressure signs between the two powders, with IMR 8208 XBR proving superior for this bullet weight and caliber. The video also includes a comparison of two chronographs.

Quick Summary

IMR 8208 XBR proved to be the superior powder for reloading the 70gr Nosler RDF bullet in 223 Remington, delivering significantly better accuracy and more manageable pressure compared to Ramshot X-Terminator. Tested loads for 8208 XBR ranged from 22.3 to 23.5 grains, yielding groups as small as 0.581 inches.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 70gr Nosler RDF in 223 Rem
  2. 00:34Brass Preparation and Priming
  3. 02:42Powder Selection: X-Terminator and 8208 XBR
  4. 04:36Overall Length Considerations (2.260")
  5. 05:18Seating Die Adjustment for OAL
  6. 09:54Range Test: 70gr Nosler RDF - Ramshot X-Terminator
  7. 14:38Range Test: 70gr Nosler RDF - IMR 8208 XBR
  8. 18:10Brass Inspection and Pressure Signs
  9. 19:50Ramshot X-Terminator Group Analysis
  10. 20:17IMR 8208 XBR Group Analysis
  11. 22:10Chronograph Comparison Test Results
  12. 23:28Conclusion and Future Tests

Frequently Asked Questions

Which powder performed better with the 70gr Nosler RDF bullet in 223 Remington?

IMR 8208 XBR significantly outperformed Ramshot X-Terminator when reloading the 70gr Nosler RDF bullet in 223 Remington. The test showed much tighter groups and more manageable pressure signs with 8208 XBR, making it the preferred choice for this bullet weight and caliber.

What were the recommended load ranges for Ramshot X-Terminator and IMR 8208 XBR with the 70gr Nosler RDF?

For Ramshot X-Terminator, loads ranged from 22.8 to 24.0 grains, with 24.0 grains showing near-maximum pressure. For IMR 8208 XBR, the tested range was 22.3 to 23.5 grains, with 23.5 grains showing excellent accuracy and no significant pressure issues.

What overall cartridge length (OAL) was targeted for the 70gr Nosler RDF in 223 Remington?

The target overall cartridge length (OAL) for the 70gr Nosler RDF in 223 Remington was 2.260 inches, which is standard for AR-15 magazines. Achieving this length required careful adjustment of the seating die due to the bullet's ogive and the die's integrated crimp.

How did the MagnetoSpeed V3 and Caldwell Ballistic Precision chronographs compare?

In this test, the MagnetoSpeed V3 and Caldwell Ballistic Precision chronographs showed very close agreement, with an average velocity difference of less than 1 FPS across 50 shots. This suggests the Caldwell chronograph is a reliable and consistent budget option when compared to the MagnetoSpeed.

Related News

All News →

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from Johnny's Reloading Bench

View all →