260 rem loads

T

trooperjd

New member
Guys I have been reading the archives by search function, and have few questions about a load that was posted in previous post.

I have a semi-custom Rem model 7 action that's blueprinted with a 22" #4 fluted Benchmark barrel with 1/8 twist. I have to develope a load for Texas whitetail deer and axis. I have 120 Sierra pro hunters and Hornady 123 and 129 SST. This is a new rifle and have not shot yet.

I would like to use the 123 SST with Varget powder. One thread stated ( and showed pics) of 39.3 grains of Varget and 123 SST. Where would one start at on that load? I want to be safe but don't want to start too low wasting time and supplies. I'm looking for accuracy with moderate speed. My Hornady manual only shows Varget max load at 37.1 with 123 and 129,and 39.3 is well above that. I also have H4350, H414, H380 but have plenty of Varget. Just looking for some insight on best place to start and be safe about it. Or maybe there is another load I failed recognize. Thanks
 
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The Hornady manual is nearly worthless IMO. Notice they didn't bother to mess with 120 or 123s for the 260, just said "use 129 gr load data". But they did spend plenty of time on their pet round 6.5 CM.

39.3 Varget under 123 amax or sst is what I shoot in mine, personally I've seen that load printed so many places I wouldn't be worried about loading up a few and trying it out. Mine will hammer things as far as I care to shoot it (800+ yds).
 
Thanks 204ar. I noticed the lack of data on this round, and that manual sucks for this caliber. I will load them up and see what happens. I have two pounds of Varget so should have plenty to roll a few. Do you load to book OAL or did you play with distance to from the lands? Thanks
 
I would start with H4350. For the 123 Amax I started at 42.5gr and worked up to a final load at 44.8grs. but thats just me.... A guy would definitely want to do his own work up. It is deadly and fast!!! i have shot this out to 1240yrds
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I allso don't see that its a waste time or reloading supplies being safe. Take your time and do things right, dont skip any steps!!!
Your patience and attention to detail will pay off.
 
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Don't get me wrong, working up loads is very very important and I realize this. I just felt the load data in the Hornady manual seemed very low in regards to powder. maybe I'm not so good with words but point taken.
 
I just barreled a 760 in 260. My pet load so far is 44.0 grains of IMR4350 behind a 120 grain A-max. The SST should work good as well...this thing is shooting 1/2" groups at 100 yards. I did some trigger work and the barrel is a Shilen. I anneal the brass and I seat .002" off the lands. One of the reasons I chose this rifle is so I could seat the bullet where I wanted it in that magazine no problem.
Definitely take caution with your load data...I always check the powder manufacturers web sites. They have load data. Watch what people post...I almost blew this thing up trying 8208XBR that was posted on here.
 
43.5 grains H4350 and 123 grain SST shoots 1/2" in my match chambered criterion. Not as fast as I'd like but to accurate to ignore.
 
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