Loading 300 Blackout - ep 4 - Supersonic load workup for 168gr A-Max

Published on September 7, 2015
Duration: 30:08

This guide details a load workup for 300 Blackout supersonic ammunition using 168gr Hornady A-Max bullets with IMR 4227 and Winchester 296 (H110) powders. It covers brass preparation, priming, powder charging, bullet seating with attention to overall length, and crimping. The process emphasizes careful observation of pressure signs and group sizes during live-fire testing at 100 yards using a Lead Sled for stability. The instructor, with apparent reloading experience, highlights discrepancies in published load data and the importance of individual firearm testing.

Quick Summary

This guide details a load workup for 300 Blackout supersonic ammunition using 168gr Hornady A-Max bullets with IMR 4227 and Winchester 296 (H110) powders. It covers brass preparation, priming, powder charging, bullet seating with attention to overall length, and crimping. The process emphasizes careful observation of pressure signs and group sizes during live-fire testing at 100 yards using a Lead Sled for stability.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction to 300 Blackout Reloading
  2. 00:33Load Data Comparison: IMR 4227 vs. Winchester 296
  3. 03:56Brass Preparation: Sizing and Decapping
  4. 07:10Priming Cases
  5. 08:30Bullet Seating and Compressed Loads
  6. 11:11Switching to Winchester 296
  7. 14:47Preparing for Range Testing
  8. 15:19IMR 4227 Load Testing - 15 Grains
  9. 16:38IMR 4227 Load Testing - 15.5 Grains
  10. 17:24IMR 4227 Load Testing - 16 Grains
  11. 18:19IMR 4227 Load Testing - 16.5 Grains
  12. 19:25IMR 4227 Load Testing - 17 Grains
  13. 20:06Winchester 296 Load Testing - 13 Grains
  14. 20:32Winchester 296 Load Testing - 13.5 Grains
  15. 21:08Winchester 296 Load Testing - 14 Grains
  16. 22:26Winchester 296 Load Testing - 14.5 Grains
  17. 23:21Winchester 296 Load Testing - 15 Grains
  18. 24:12Overall Performance Analysis
  19. 25:06Point of Impact Shift Analysis
  20. 27:20IMR 4227 vs. Winchester 296 Accuracy Comparison
  21. 29:22Future Reloading Plans

Frequently Asked Questions

What powders are recommended for 300 Blackout supersonic loads with 168gr A-Max bullets?

For 300 Blackout supersonic loads with 168gr A-Max bullets, this video explores IMR 4227 and Winchester 296 (also known as H110). The instructor found Winchester 296 to be significantly more accurate in their firearm for this specific bullet weight.

What are the recommended load ranges for IMR 4227 and Winchester 296 with 168gr A-Max in 300 Blackout?

For IMR 4227, the tested range was 15 to 17 grains. For Winchester 296, the tested range was 13 to 15 grains. It's crucial to note that published data varies, and individual workups are essential due to potential discrepancies.

What is the importance of overall length (OAL) when reloading compressed loads?

When reloading compressed loads, like those with IMR 4227 and heavier bullets, the overall length of the cartridge can increase as the powder charge increases. This necessitates careful monitoring of the seating die and OAL to ensure consistency and proper chambering, as demonstrated in the video.

Which powder performed better for 300 Blackout 168gr A-Max loads in this test?

The instructor found Winchester 296 to be the superior powder for the 168gr A-Max bullet in their 300 Blackout firearm. It produced much tighter groups and better overall accuracy compared to IMR 4227, leading the instructor to focus on it for future loads.

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