300 Win Mag - Berger 200.20X with H1000

Published on January 3, 2022
Duration: 23:39

This video details an advanced load development technique for the 300 Win Mag using Berger 200.20X Hybrid Target bullets and Hodgdon H1000 powder. The instructor employs a 'plateau method' by testing 10 charge weights across three overall lengths, aiming to identify charge weight regions where muzzle velocity remains consistent despite minor charge variations. The analysis focuses on correlating velocity data with accuracy to find a forgiving and precise load, while also exploring the impact of overall length.

Quick Summary

The 'plateau method' for firearm load development identifies charge weight ranges where muzzle velocity is consistent despite minor powder increases, indicating a forgiving load. Testing multiple overall lengths with Berger 200.20X bullets in 300 Win Mag showed longer seating depths potentially improving accuracy and velocity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Berger 200.20X in 300 Win Mag
  2. 00:43Load Development Method: Plateau Technique
  3. 01:40Load Data Overview: Charge Weights & OALs
  4. 02:00Finding Load Data: Bullet & Powder Selection
  5. 02:34Overall Length Considerations
  6. 03:48Range Setup: Bag Rider & Suppressor
  7. 04:18Zeroing Shots & Initial Group
  8. 05:38First Group Analysis: Accuracy Concerns
  9. 06:12Starting Longest OAL Test Rounds
  10. 06:31Single Feeding Ammunition
  11. 07:21Promising Results: Velocity & Accuracy
  12. 08:12Primer Cratering & Velocity Comparison
  13. 09:41Velocity Plateau Observed
  14. 10:27Mirage Control: Using a Fan
  15. 10:33Middle OAL Test Rounds
  16. 11:45Middle OAL Analysis: Vertical Spread
  17. 12:15Shortest OAL Test Rounds
  18. 12:54Shortest OAL Results: Unexpected Grouping
  19. 13:44Recoil Management & Comfort
  20. 14:02Returning to Bench: Data Analysis
  21. 14:31Brass Inspection: Fastest Shot
  22. 14:53Velocity Plateau Analysis Chart
  23. 15:11Longest OAL Velocity Plateau
  24. 15:31Middle OAL Velocity Plateau
  25. 15:43Shortest OAL Velocity Plateau
  26. 15:56Comparing OALs: Velocity Consistency
  27. 16:02Initial Zeroing Group Data
  28. 16:40Accuracy Analysis: Group Comparison
  29. 17:04Shortest OAL Initial Group
  30. 17:16Ideal Target Setup for Analysis
  31. 18:16General Accuracy Observations
  32. 18:43Shot Marker Analysis: Potential Clusters
  33. 19:31Promising Charge Weights Identified
  34. 19:40Velocity Graph for Promising Loads
  35. 19:58Future Test Plans: 6.5 Creedmoor & 308
  36. 21:05Alternative Test Formats: Fewer Shots, More OALs
  37. 21:43Spreadsheet Analysis Ideas
  38. 22:02Next Steps for 300 Win Mag Load Development
  39. 22:30Concluding Thoughts & Future Investigations
  40. 23:01Expanding Test Parameters: Two Shots Per Combination
  41. 23:28Outro & Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'plateau method' for firearm load development?

The plateau method involves testing various powder charge weights to find a range where muzzle velocity remains relatively constant despite small increases in powder. This indicates a potentially forgiving load that is less sensitive to minor charge variations, often leading to better accuracy.

How does overall length affect 300 Win Mag performance with heavy bullets?

In this test with Berger 200.20X bullets, a longer overall length (closer to the lands) appeared to yield better grouping potential and higher velocities compared to shorter overall lengths. This suggests that seating depth can significantly influence accuracy and performance.

What powder and primer combination was used for the 300 Win Mag test?

The test utilized Hodgdon H1000 powder and Federal GM 215M primers. This combination was chosen based on available data and educated decisions, aiming for optimal performance with the Berger 200.20X Hybrid Target bullets.

What are the key considerations when analyzing load development data?

Key considerations include muzzle velocity (extreme spread and standard deviation) for consistency, and actual group sizes for accuracy. Identifying 'plateaus' in velocity and correlating them with tight groups across different overall lengths is crucial for finding an optimal load.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Johnny's Reloading Bench

View all →