HI, I am working up some 9.3X62 loads. I am using some Varget and need to compress the powder.. I have always avoided doing so... but I need to if I am using Varget and my 286 grain bullet. (load from the Hodg. sight) The question is... What are the downsides to powder compression and how much is heavy compression? Is 1/8" a lot of compression? thanks
Aaron

1/8" of compression in that case is not much.

Go ahead and load them.

In fact, I personally prefer slight compression in all my hunting loads.

Slight compression is actually good, it will help keep the powder ignition more uniform. Try using a long drop tube to get your powder as compact as possible. I have the same problem loading 250gr bullets in my .338-06 o/ 61grRL19, but the sub 1" groups are gratifying.

You might stand your loads up on a flat surface after reloading to check for wobble. Sometimes compression will force your primer to back out a ways. It's something we don't hear much about, but it does happen. Just a tip. Best wishes.

Cal - Montreal

In some loads, depending on the degree of compression, the bullet can also creep forward over time. The compressed powder can "decompress" pushing the bullet out of the case to some degree. Note the OAL and check again periodically. Another way is to mark the case and bullet with a felt tip. A bright spot on the bullet at the case mouth over time indicates forward movement of the bullet.

Thanks guys,

It turned out to be just shy of 3/16 of compression - although some powder will go around the bullet base and shoulder. I thought that would be heavy compression. That is the max load listed. I need to get it over the chronograph to see what i'm doing. thanks much.

Aaron