.223 Remington FMJ Shootout - Part 4 - IMR 3031

Published on February 15, 2018
Duration: 15:12

This video details a reloading shootout for .223 Remington 55 grain Full Metal Jacket bullets using IMR 3031 powder. The instructor tests five different bullet types across two overall lengths, measuring velocity and group sizes. The results highlight the performance differences between bullet manufacturers and the impact of overall cartridge length on accuracy with this specific powder.

Quick Summary

In a .223 Remington reloading test using IMR 3031 powder, the Hornady 55gr FMJ boat tail bullet achieved an exceptional 0.447-inch group at an overall length of 2.260 inches. Everglades bullets performed best at a shorter OAL, highlighting the critical impact of cartridge length on accuracy with this powder.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to .223 FMJ Shootout Part 4
  2. 00:44Testing Five Different 55 Grain Bullets
  3. 01:20Test Format: Two Overall Lengths
  4. 01:56Charge Weight Selection for IMR 3031
  5. 02:45Expected Velocity Range
  6. 03:15Hornady Bullet Shortage
  7. 03:36Primers, Brass, and Chronograph Setup
  8. 03:56Shooting Short Overall Length Groups
  9. 04:27Hornady Short OAL Group
  10. 05:01Bob's Bullet Short OAL Group
  11. 05:27RMR Short OAL Group
  12. 05:57RMR Short OAL Group (Second)
  13. 06:18Lapua Short OAL Group
  14. 06:46Short OAL Velocity and Group Analysis
  15. 08:15Shooting Long Overall Length Groups
  16. 08:23Hornady Long OAL Group
  17. 08:53Bob's Bullet Long OAL Group
  18. 09:21Everglades Long OAL Group
  19. 09:46RMR Long OAL Group
  20. 10:12Lapua Long OAL Group
  21. 10:36Long OAL Velocity and Group Analysis
  22. 11:15Hornady Long OAL: Excellent Accuracy
  23. 11:38Bob's Bullet Improvement at Long OAL
  24. 11:54Everglades Performance at Long OAL
  25. 12:19RMR Disappointing Performance
  26. 13:10Lapua Performance vs. Price
  27. 13:23Future Powder Testing Ideas
  28. 14:01Upcoming Videos: Mark 262, 75gr Hornady
  29. 14:35Balancing 223, 224 Valkyrie, and Other Calibers
  30. 15:00Conclusion and Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended charge weight for IMR 3031 with 55 grain FMJ bullets in .223 Remington?

While conflicting data exists, the video tested 23.1 grains of IMR 3031 with 55 grain FMJ bullets. Hornady's data suggests a max of 22.8 grains, but other sources indicate higher maximums. Always consult multiple reliable reloading manuals and proceed with caution.

How did different bullet types perform with IMR 3031 in .223 Remington?

The Hornady 55gr FMJ boat tail showed excellent accuracy at a longer overall length (2.260"), achieving a 0.447" group. Everglades bullets performed best at a shorter OAL, while RMR and Lapua bullets showed inconsistent or disappointing results.

What is the impact of overall cartridge length on accuracy with IMR 3031 in .223 Remington?

Testing two overall lengths, 2.260" and a shorter OAL with a crimp, revealed significant differences. The Hornady bullets excelled at the longer length, while Everglades bullets preferred the shorter length, demonstrating that OAL is a critical factor for accuracy with this powder.

What were the observed velocities for .223 Remington using IMR 3031?

Velocities for the .223 Remington loads using IMR 3031 powder ranged approximately between 2810 and 2849 feet per second. This is noted as being on the lower end compared to other powders tested in the series.

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