Butt Kickin' 5.56 Bullets - ep 1 - 70gr Maker REX

Published on August 26, 2016
Duration: 86:34

This guide details the process of reloading 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition using Maker 70gr REX bullets, focusing on load development with AR Comp and Ramshot TAC powders. It covers essential steps from brass preparation and priming to bullet seating and crimping, emphasizing safety precautions due to the potential for high pressure with monolithic bullets. The video highlights the critical importance of starting with conservative loads and meticulously checking for pressure signs, as demonstrated by a dangerous over-pressure incident.

Quick Summary

Reloading 5.56x45mm with monolithic bullets like the Maker REX requires extreme caution due to reduced case capacity and potential for over-pressure. Start with significantly reduced powder charges (e.g., below 20 grains for AR Comp) and meticulously check for pressure signs like blown primers. The Maker REX bullet showed impressive expansion and weight retention in water jug tests.

Chapters

  1. 00:02General Warning & Over-Pressure Issues
  2. 02:05Introduction to 5.56x45mm Reloading Series
  3. 04:05Introducing the 70gr Maker REX Bullet
  4. 06:04Introducing the 62gr Maker T-REX Bullet
  5. 07:25Introducing the 55gr Lehi Defense Controlled Chaos
  6. 10:05Introducing the 65gr Sierra Game King
  7. 11:41Powder and Primer Selection for 5.56
  8. 13:09Load Data: AR Comp and Ramshot TAC
  9. 13:57Reloading Equipment Overview
  10. 16:08Load Data Considerations for Maker Bullets
  11. 19:23Specific Load Data: AR Comp and TAC
  12. 20:43Setting Overall Length and OAL Checks
  13. 21:06Case Lubrication and Resizing
  14. 22:00Setting Reloading Dies
  15. 26:06Dealing with Small Base Die Resistance
  16. 27:34Post-Resizing Brass Preparation
  17. 31:04Case Length Measurement and Trimming
  18. 31:22Chamfering and Deburring Case Mouths
  19. 32:38Priming Cases
  20. 35:20Troubleshooting Priming Issues (Crimps)
  21. 37:36Removing Military Primer Crimp
  22. 39:34Powder Charging: AR Comp
  23. 44:40Bullet Seating Die Setup and OAL Adjustment
  24. 51:49Crimp Die Setup and Application
  25. 57:53Powder Charging: Ramshot TAC
  26. 61:04Reloading Complete: TAC Loads
  27. 65:13Range Day: Setup and Initial Shots
  28. 68:02Critical Over-Pressure Incident with AR Comp
  29. 71:16Testing Lightest TAC Load After Pressure Incident
  30. 76:24Water Jug Ballistics Testing
  31. 78:53Bullet Performance Analysis (Maker REX)
  32. 80:03TAC Load Performance and Conclusion
  33. 80:59Plans for Part Two: Redeeming AR Comp
  34. 81:41Recap of Dangerous Pressure Signs
  35. 82:26Analyzing Load Data Discrepancies

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key safety concerns when reloading 5.56x45mm with monolithic bullets like the Maker REX?

The primary safety concern is over-pressure due to reduced case capacity from longer, monolithic bullets. Always start with significantly reduced powder charges, meticulously check for pressure signs like blown primers or case head expansion, and never exceed published data. It's crucial to verify load data for the specific bullet weight and type.

What load data was used for the 70gr Maker REX bullet in 5.56x45mm?

The video started load development with 22.3 grains of AR Comp powder, which resulted in dangerous over-pressure. Ramshot TAC powder was also tested, with initial loads starting at 23 grains. Load development for monolithic bullets requires extreme caution and starting much lower than standard data might suggest.

How does the Maker REX bullet perform in ballistic testing?

In water jug testing at close range, the Maker REX 70gr bullet demonstrated significant expansion, breaking into multiple petals while retaining approximately 100% of its weight. This indicates effective terminal performance for hunting or self-defense applications.

What are the recommended reloading steps for 5.56x45mm brass?

Key steps include removing military primer crimps, resizing with a small base die, chamfering and deburring case mouths, priming, carefully weighing powder charges, seating bullets to a consistent overall length (e.g., 2.258-2.260 inches), and applying a light crimp. Always monitor for pressure signs.

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