.223 Rem - 65gr Cutting Edge MTH with 8208XBR and Varget

Published on July 15, 2018
Duration: 24:56

This video details the reloading process for the .223 Remington cartridge using 65gr Cutting Edge MTH bullets, IMR 8208 XBR, and Hodgdon Varget powders. The instructor emphasizes the unique 'seal tight band' design of the bullet, its impact on seating depth, and the importance of proper case neck preparation to maintain tension. Accuracy testing reveals significant variability, with specific loads showing promise for future development and ballistic gel testing.

Quick Summary

The 65gr Cutting Edge MTH bullet for .223 Remington features a unique 'seal tight band' measuring 0.226 inches, designed to enhance accuracy and seal the bore. When reloading, it's crucial to seat the bullet so this band remains above the case mouth to maintain neck tension and avoid damage. Tested powders include IMR 8208 XBR and Hodgdon Varget, with specific load data and accuracy results provided.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 65gr Cutting Edge MTH Bullet
  2. 00:51Bullet Design: Seal Tight Band Explained
  3. 01:48Bullet Dimensions and Bearing Surface
  4. 02:06Accuracy Concerns with Solid Copper
  5. 02:49Reloading Data and Instructions
  6. 03:42Seating Depth and VLD Chamfering
  7. 04:43Brass and Primer Selection
  8. 06:00Powder Choices: 8208 XBR and Varget
  9. 06:09Load Data: 8208 XBR Increments
  10. 06:20Load Data: Varget Increments
  11. 06:34Overall Length and Chamber Fit
  12. 07:38Bullet Seating Process
  13. 09:16Bullet Consistency Check
  14. 10:33Seating Performance Observations
  15. 10:39Hunting Potential with 65gr Bullets
  16. 11:04Compressed Loads with Varget
  17. 12:11Range Conditions and Setup
  18. 12:56Accuracy Testing: 21.8gr 8208 XBR
  19. 14:44Accuracy Testing: 22.4gr 8208 XBR
  20. 15:15Accuracy Testing: 22.7gr 8208 XBR
  21. 15:44Accuracy Testing: 23.0gr 8208 XBR
  22. 16:07Accuracy Testing: 23.8gr Varget
  23. 16:34Accuracy Testing: 24.1gr Varget
  24. 17:11Accuracy Testing: 24.4gr Varget
  25. 17:43Accuracy Testing: 24.7gr Varget
  26. 18:08Accuracy Testing: 25.0gr Varget
  27. 18:46Brass Inspection Post-Firing
  28. 19:51Accuracy Analysis: Group Sizes
  29. 20:248208 XBR Grouping Patterns
  30. 21:10Varget Accuracy Performance
  31. 21:29Future Testing Plans
  32. 22:23Pressure Concerns and Bullet Design
  33. 23:02Cost and Potential of Expensive Bullets
  34. 23:31Comparison: Lehigh Defense and Maker Bullets
  35. 24:25Conclusion and Viewer Input

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'seal tight band' on Cutting Edge bullets?

The 'seal tight band' is a unique design feature on Cutting Edge MTH bullets, characterized by a thicker band towards the top of the bullet. This band measures 0.226 inches, slightly larger than the standard 0.224-inch bearing surface, and is designed to create a seal within the bore, potentially enhancing accuracy and reducing fouling.

What are the recommended powders for reloading .223 Remington with 65gr Cutting Edge MTH bullets?

The instructor tested IMR 8208 XBR and Hodgdon Varget powders for the .223 Remington cartridge with 65gr Cutting Edge MTH bullets. Load development ranged from 21.8 to 23.0 grains for 8208 XBR and 23.8 to 25.0 grains for Varget, with specific accuracy results noted for each.

What is the correct bullet seating depth for Cutting Edge MTH bullets in .223 Remington?

For the .223 Remington with 65gr Cutting Edge MTH bullets, the overall length was set to 2.260 inches, which places the 'seal tight band' just above the case mouth. This ensures the band is not seated below the case mouth, which can affect neck tension and potentially damage the band.

Are solid copper bullets like Cutting Edge MTH suitable for hunting?

The 65gr Cutting Edge MTH bullet is described as 'Match Tactical Hunting' (MTH). While the video focuses on accuracy testing, the instructor notes that a 65-grain bullet in .22 caliber could be a viable option for hunting deer, with plans for ballistic gel testing in a future video to assess expansion capabilities.

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