Butt Kickin' 5.56 Bullets - ep3 - 65gr Sierra Game King and CFE 223

Published on September 9, 2016
Duration: 67:44

This video details the process of reloading 5.56x45mm ammunition using the 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet and Hodgdon CFE 223 powder. It covers load development from 24.0 to 26.6 grains, explores the impact of overall length variations (2.210" to 2.260"), and includes ballistics testing with velocity data and water jug expansion tests. The instructor emphasizes careful monitoring of pressure signs and provides insights into achieving consistent groups with an off-the-shelf AR-15.

Quick Summary

The 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet with CFE 223 powder in 5.56x45mm achieved velocities around 2850 ft/s with a maximum charge of 26.6 grains. An overall length of 2.250 inches yielded good accuracy, and the bullet showed significant expansion and fragmentation upon impact.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 65gr Sierra Game King & CFE 223
  2. 00:36Bullet Overview: Sierra 65gr Game King
  3. 01:40Powder Selection: CFE 223
  4. 02:13Primer & Brass Preparation
  5. 03:01Load Data Research & Max Charge Determination
  6. 06:14Setting Max Charge: 26.0 Grains
  7. 06:42Loading Strategy: Incremental Charges
  8. 08:04Priming Brass & Case Issues
  9. 09:24CFE 223 Powder Characteristics
  10. 11:04Setting Up Powder Measure & Trickler
  11. 13:54Calibrating Beam Scale
  12. 15:52First 5 Charges & Case Fill
  13. 16:14Overall Length (OAL) Setting: 2.250"
  14. 17:13Bullet Seating Process
  15. 19:36Applying Factory Crimp
  16. 20:48CFE 223: Copper Fouling Eraser
  17. 22:17Reloading Mishap: Powder Spillage
  18. 23:14Reloading Mishap: Bullet Tip Damage
  19. 24:15Final Charges & Case Capacity
  20. 25:43Preparing for the Range: Suppressor Off
  21. 26:12Shooting Strategy: Round Robin
  22. 26:45First Shots & Velocity Readings
  23. 29:12Shooting Strategy: High to Low Charges
  24. 33:06Reviewing Initial Groups & Accuracy
  25. 34:31Increasing Charge Weight: 26.3 & 26.6 Grains
  26. 35:59Loading Higher Charges
  27. 36:43Shooting Higher Charges
  28. 38:30Analyzing Initial Results & Pressure Signs
  29. 40:02New Tactic: Adjusting Overall Length (OAL)
  30. 42:32Determining Safe OAL Range
  31. 43:17Loading for OAL Variation: 2.210" to 2.260"
  32. 45:02Preparing 30 Rounds with Varying OAL
  33. 46:34Final Ammunition Ready
  34. 47:02Bonus Rounds: Water Jug Expansion Test
  35. 47:23Target Labeling Error & Shooting Order
  36. 48:15Shooting OAL Series: 2.260" & 2.250"
  37. 50:21Temperature Effects on Velocity
  38. 50:50Shooting OAL Series: 2.240" & 2.230"
  39. 53:03Shooting OAL Series: 2.220"
  40. 54:44Shooting OAL Series: 2.210" & Final Group Analysis
  41. 55:34Water Jug Expansion Test
  42. 57:50Water Jug Test Results & Bullet Fragmentation
  43. 59:41Final Bench Review & Group Measurements
  44. 61:41Overall Conclusion: CFE 223 & 65gr Game King Performance
  45. 63:23Bullet Expansion Summary
  46. 64:17Next Steps: Trying Other Powders
  47. 64:43Future Bullet & Powder Polls
  48. 67:03Outro & Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended maximum load for the 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet with CFE 223 powder in 5.56x45mm?

Based on load data research and testing, a maximum charge of 26.6 grains of CFE 223 powder with the 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet showed no significant pressure signs in a 16-inch barrel. However, always start at lower charges and work up cautiously, referencing manufacturer data.

What overall length (OAL) is recommended for the 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet in 5.56x45mm reloads?

An overall length of 2.250 inches proved to be a good starting point for accuracy with the 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet and CFE 223 powder. Testing showed that lengths between 2.210" and 2.260" did not significantly impact velocity or pressure in the tested firearm.

How does the 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet perform upon impact?

The 65-grain Sierra Game King bullet demonstrated aggressive expansion and fragmentation in water jug tests, shedding approximately 20 grains of its weight while retaining its jacket and base, indicating it's a mean round for hunting or defense.

What are the key characteristics of Hodgdon CFE 223 powder for reloading?

Hodgdon CFE 223 is a fine flake powder known for its excellent metering properties and its ability to reduce copper fouling in barrels. It's a popular choice for 5.56x45mm and other rifle cartridges.

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