6.5 Creedmoor - 140gr Hornady Match BTHP with RL26 and RL17

Published on January 21, 2018
Duration: 27:35

This video details a 6.5 Creedmoor reloading project using 140gr Hornady Match BTHP bullets. It compares Alliant Reloder 17 and Reloder 26 powders, finding Reloder 26 achieves higher velocities but causes pressure signs like pierced primers, while Reloder 17 offers better accuracy. The test highlights the importance of primer selection and careful load development for optimal performance and safety.

Quick Summary

For 6.5 Creedmoor reloading with 140gr Hornady Match BTHP, Alliant Reloder 17 offered better accuracy than Reloder 26, despite lower velocities. Reloder 26 achieved up to 2845 fps but caused pressure signs like pierced primers, while Reloder 17 yielded sub-MOA groups.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 140gr Hornady Match BTHP
  2. 01:25Powder Choice: Reloder 17 & 26
  3. 02:18Primers & Brass Components
  4. 04:49Load Data & OAL Specs
  5. 08:05Reloading Process & Measurements
  6. 12:01Range Test: Reloder 26 Results
  7. 17:41Range Test: Reloder 17 Results
  8. 20:04Analysis & Conclusions

Frequently Asked Questions

Which powder performed better for accuracy in the 6.5 Creedmoor test?

Alliant Reloder 17 provided superior accuracy in this test, producing groups around the half-inch mark at 100 yards. While Reloder 26 achieved higher velocities, it came with increased pressure signs and less consistent accuracy.

What were the main pressure issues encountered during the 6.5 Creedmoor reloading test?

The primary pressure issue was a pierced primer with the highest charge of Reloder 26. Significant primer cratering was also observed with both Reloder 17 and Reloder 26 loads, suggesting the Remington 7 1/2 primers might be too soft for these pressures.

What is the optimal OAL for 6.5 Creedmoor loads with 140gr Hornady Match BTHP bullets?

The target OAL for these 6.5 Creedmoor loads was 2.800 inches. Consistent measurement using a bullet comparator (CBTO) is crucial for accuracy, especially with compressed loads where OAL can slightly increase.

What are the recommended primers for high-pressure 6.5 Creedmoor loads?

Based on observed primer cratering and piercing, the host plans to switch to harder CCI 41 primers for future high-pressure testing. This is recommended to better withstand the pressures generated by powders like Reloder 26.

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