.223 Rem - 75gr Hornady BTHP with N540 & Varmint

Published on September 13, 2021
Duration: 18:59

This video details the process of reloading .223 Remington ammunition using 75gr Hornady BTHP bullets with Varget N540 and Alliant Power Pro Varmint powders. The instructor demonstrates seating bullets to a specific overall length, discusses charge weights, and presents ballistic data from test firing at 100 yards. The analysis includes group sizes, velocities, and brass inspection for pressure signs, offering insights into powder and bullet combinations.

Quick Summary

Reloading .223 Remington with 75gr Hornady BTHP bullets involves careful powder selection and charge weight management. For Varget N540, loads from 23.9 to 24.7 grains were tested, while Alliant Power Pro Varmint also saw charges from 23.9 to 24.7 grains. A target overall length of 2.250 inches is recommended, and brass inspection for pressure signs is crucial.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Reloading Setup and Press
  2. 00:44Introducing the 75gr Hornady BTHP Bullet
  3. 01:12Bullet Cost Comparison
  4. 02:19Brass Preparation and Primers
  5. 03:09Powder Selection: Varget N540 & Power Pro Varmint
  6. 03:49Loading Verification and Test Loads
  7. 05:01Bullet Seating Process
  8. 07:45Firearm and Range Setup
  9. 08:41Baseline Group: Sierra Match King with N540
  10. 10:10Baseline Group: Sierra Match King with Power Pro Varmint
  11. 11:26Test 1: 75gr Hornady with Varget N540 (23.9 grains)
  12. 12:29Test 2: 75gr Hornady with Varget N540 (24.3 grains)
  13. 13:10Test 3: 75gr Hornady with Varget N540 (24.7 grains)
  14. 14:20Test 1: 75gr Hornady with Power Pro Varmint (23.9 grains)
  15. 15:04Test 2: 75gr Hornady with Power Pro Varmint (24.3 grains)
  16. 15:47Test 3: 75gr Hornady with Power Pro Varmint (24.7 grains)
  17. 16:30Summary of All Test Groups
  18. 17:42Brass Inspection and Pressure Signs
  19. 18:48Conclusion and Future Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended charge weights for reloading .223 Remington with 75gr Hornady BTHP bullets?

For Varget N540, charge weights tested ranged from 23.9 to 24.7 grains. For Alliant Power Pro Varmint, charge weights tested were also from 23.9 to 24.7 grains. Specific load data should always be consulted from reliable sources before reloading.

How does the 75gr Hornady BTHP compare in cost to the 77gr Sierra Match King?

The 75gr Hornady BTHP is significantly more affordable, costing around 22 cents per bullet, while the 77gr Sierra Match King is priced at approximately 36 cents per bullet, making the Hornady a more budget-friendly option.

What overall length is recommended for .223 Remington cartridges loaded with 75gr Hornady BTHP bullets?

A target overall length of 2.250 inches is recommended for .223 Remington cartridges loaded with 75gr Hornady BTHP bullets. During testing, achieved lengths were consistently between 2.246 and 2.250 inches.

What pressure signs were observed when reloading .223 Remington with 75gr Hornady BTHP bullets?

When using Varget N540 at a 24.7 grain charge, ejector marks and smearing were observed on the brass. This indicates potential pressure issues, suggesting that backing off the load slightly might be beneficial for brass longevity and safe operation.

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