Last month I had a question if a NEW BARRELL would affect load development.The initial groups I was getting were VERY disappointing,(actually,they were pretty embarrasing)somewhere in the 4's,as in inches!

I don't know if running 140 rds. thru the gun over the course of 10 days or using formfired brass or changing powders was the main variable,but the day it shot cloverleafs was like magic.Many members had replied with the loads their guns liked,and I tried alot of them,but when I shot that batch of IMR 4350 it was very rewarding.
I had made up rds. from 36-39.9 grs.in .3 increments.First few rds. were not very promising,but when I shot the last 4 they were all within an 1".
Went and loaded 5 of each charge 39.0-39.3- 39.6-39.9.Shot 3 of each load at first then 2 follow ups just to be sure of the results.39.0 grs.IMR 4350 was just the ticket!Little tiny cloverleafs.I then zeroed the scope and proceded to shoot out X-ring(much to my neighbor/shooting buddy/co-worker's astonishment)
I have to thank you all for your exellent advice and a special thanks to pdhntr1 for his much appreciated input.This gun is going to become my favorite.Now only if my rabbit-in-distress-calling stops chasing away the 'yotes I'd be in business!

Jim

FYI. DP 85 22-250, Bull barrel, very little wind, 100yds. 55gr FBHP Berger, Everything the same except powder charge. Started at 39grains dp85 and went to 42 grains dp85 in 1/2 grain increments. Velocity went from 3400 fps to someting over 3700 fps. The largest group was .8" (42gr.) and the smallest 3 shot group was under .4". I chronographed all 7 loads one after the other, hot barrel. The 7 shots of different powder charges was an easy 1/2" group. The 42 gr. loading showed little or no over pressure. Three of three 22-250s performs just super with it.

The DP 85 can still be had for$69.00/8# One source is Powder Valley. I just received another 48# Thur. Soon it will be gone as is all the rest of the surplus powders. roger