6.5 PRC - Retumbo with 140gr Hornady Match BTHP

Published on July 4, 2022
Duration: 12:39

This video details a reloading and accuracy test of the 6.5 PRC cartridge using Hodgdon Retumbo powder with 140gr Hornady Match BTHP bullets. The instructor compares Nozzler and Hornady brass, tests various overall lengths, and reports on velocity and group sizes at 100 yards. The content provides valuable insights for reloaders seeking to optimize performance for this cartridge and bullet combination.

Quick Summary

For the 6.5 PRC with 140gr Hornady Match BTHP bullets and Hodgdon Retumbo powder, 58.5 grains is an optimal charge weight yielding around 2925 fps. Hornady brass generally produced tighter groups than Nozzler brass, with the shortest tested overall length (2.910") showing the best accuracy potential.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 6.5 PRC Retumbo Load Test
  2. 00:10Brass Preparation and Previous Reloading Issues
  3. 00:36Comparison to Reloader 26 Loads
  4. 00:54Brass Comparison: Velocity Testing
  5. 01:04Charge Weights and Manual Data
  6. 01:16Initial Group Testing: Hornady vs. Nozzler Brass
  7. 01:20Velocity Data Analysis
  8. 01:32Selecting Optimal Charge Weight and OAL
  9. 01:44Reloading Process: Charge Weights and Seating
  10. 01:57Retumbo Load Characteristics: Not Compressed
  11. 02:06First Overall Length Test (2.930")
  12. 02:17Range Setup and Target at 100 Yards
  13. 02:27Shooting Protocol: Nozzler Brass First
  14. 02:51Nozzler Brass: 2.930" OAL Results
  15. 03:03Nozzler Brass: 2.920" OAL Results
  16. 03:46Nozzler Brass: 2.910" OAL Results
  17. 03:55Transition to Hornady Brass
  18. 04:01Hornady Brass: 2.930" OAL Results
  19. 04:52Hornady Brass: 2.920" OAL Results
  20. 05:03Hornady Brass: 2.910" OAL Results
  21. 05:35Rifle Comfort and Grip Adjustments
  22. 05:49Discussion on Nozzler Brass Sizing Issues
  23. 06:28Overall Brass Performance and Conclusion
  24. 06:54Bullet Performance and Ballistic Coefficient
  25. 07:07Retumbo vs. Reloader 26 Velocity Comparison
  26. 07:17Pressure Considerations and Primer Pocket Longevity
  27. 07:30Final Load Summary and Future Testing
  28. 07:53Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the optimal charge weight for 6.5 PRC using Hodgdon Retumbo and 140gr Hornady Match bullets?

Based on testing, 58.5 grains of Hodgdon Retumbo appears to be an optimal charge weight for the 6.5 PRC with 140gr Hornady Match BTHP bullets, yielding approximately 2925 fps. This is within the recommended range from reloading data sources.

How did Nozzler and Hornady brass compare in the 6.5 PRC Retumbo load test?

While velocities were similar between Nozzler and Hornady brass, Hornady brass consistently produced tighter groups. The instructor noted difficult bolt lift with Nozzler brass, suggesting it required harder sizing for optimal chamber fit.

What overall lengths were tested for the 6.5 PRC Retumbo load?

Three overall lengths were tested: 2.930 inches (with 0.020" jump), 2.920 inches, and 2.910 inches. The shortest overall length, 2.910", generally yielded the best accuracy with both brass types.

What were the best accuracy results achieved in the 6.5 PRC Retumbo load test?

The best accuracy was achieved with Hornady brass at an overall length of 2.930 inches, resulting in an exceptional 0.34-inch group. The Nozzler brass produced its best group of 0.46 inches at 2.910 inches overall length.

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