25x47 Mystery Solved: Precision Load Development

Published on March 19, 2026
Duration: 20:37

This video details the meticulous process of developing a precision load for the 25x47 Lapua wildcat cartridge. Hosts Gavin Gear and F-Class John share their journey from initial discouraging results to achieving sub-quarter-minute groups with a focus on small powder charge increments and careful observation of group characteristics. They highlight the importance of Alpha brass and demonstrate the cartridge's capability at extended ranges, offering valuable insights for handloaders seeking peak accuracy.

Quick Summary

The optimal load for the 25x47 Lapua was found to be 40.2 grains of Hodgdon H4350 powder with a 138-grain Hornady A-Tip bullet, achieving a .231 MOA group at 2855 fps with an SD of 8.1. This precision was achieved through meticulous load development, focusing on small powder charge increments and expert consultation.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to the 25x47 Lapua Project
  2. 00:23Rifle Build Overview
  3. 01:25The Challenge of Load Development
  4. 01:51Initial Load Attempts and Discouragement
  5. 03:02Seeking Expert Advice
  6. 03:34First Load Recommendations
  7. 03:49Broad Bracket Testing
  8. 04:19Testing Berger 135s
  9. 04:38F-Class John's Development Approach
  10. 04:54Refining Loads with Expert Input
  11. 05:11Developing Loads for 138gr A-Tips
  12. 05:37Fine-Tuning Powder Charges
  13. 05:50Observing Group Shapes and Shifts
  14. 06:13Impact of Suppressor vs. Brake
  15. 06:35Identifying the Optimal Load
  16. 06:49Analyzing Group Performance
  17. 07:34Narrowing the Powder Charge Bracket
  18. 08:03Confirming the Load Node
  19. 08:38Competition at Mid-Mountain Range
  20. 09:54The Winning Load Revealed
  21. 10:25Cautionary Tale: Coarse Increments
  22. 11:17Extended Range Testing
  23. 11:35Shooting in Snowy Conditions
  24. 13:35Positional Shooting Wrap-up
  25. 14:15Final Load Summary
  26. 15:17Rifle Performance Summary
  27. 15:22Alpha Brass Advantages
  28. 16:07Fireforming vs. Factory Brass
  29. 16:43PRS Shooter Endorsements
  30. 17:10Future Load Development Ideas
  31. 18:09Seating Depth Considerations
  32. 18:34Cartridge Versatility
  33. 18:51Ballistic Coefficient of A-Tips
  34. 19:23Conclusion and Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components of the 25x47 Lapua rifle discussed in the video?

The rifle features a Foundation Samson stock, a BAT 75° bolt throw hammerhead action, a 28-inch CRB barrel with a 1:7.5 twist, an Alpha Legacy reamer, and a TriggerTech Remington 700 Diamond trigger. It's topped with a Hawkins Precision mount and an Element Optics Theos 6-36 scope.

What powder and bullet combination proved most accurate for the 25x47 Lapua?

The most accurate load identified was 40.2 grains of Hodgdon H4350 powder behind a 138-grain Hornady A-Tip bullet, achieving a 5-shot group of .231 MOA at 2855 fps with an SD of 8.1.

What are the advantages of using Alpha brass for the 25x47 Lapua?

Alpha brass for the 25x47 Lapua offers correct headstamping and dimensions, eliminating the need for necking or fire-forming. It's known for its consistency, strength, and ability to handle higher pressures, saving time and money.

How did the load development process for the 25x47 Lapua progress?

Initial loads with 131gr ACE bullets were inaccurate. After consulting experts and testing various charges of H4350 with 135gr Bergers and 138gr A-Tips, fine-tuning in 0.1-grain increments led to the discovery of optimal nodes, culminating in sub-quarter-minute groups.

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