This is duplicated on the varmint thread.. it is done in response to a batch of emails coming my way on this subject, requesting data.



Blue Dot in 17 and 20 Caliber cases

Cases Reviewed:

17 Fireball
17 Ackley Bee
17 K Hornet
20 BR Rem

I have recently received a lot of emails and PMs on web sites asking about Blue Dot formulas in cases smaller than a 223. Many of these smaller bores are becoming popular with varmint shooters.

I have found that Blue Dot does have certain parameters that seem to hold true, regardless of bore diameter, but rely on case design. In developing loads for a new cartridge with Blue Dot, I have worked out a formula that I use. However at times it becomes hard for some to understand it, as I get tons of PMs and emails asking for clarification.

Therefore, I am recommending the following parameters for each of the above cartridges.

I. 17 Rem Fireball and 20 Vartag: Full Case: 16grs of Blue Dot
a. Minimum load: 20% or 3.2grs
b. 30% load: 4.8 grs
c. 40% load: 6.4 grs
d. 50% load: 8 grs
e. 60% load: 9.6 grs

After the 8 grain load, it is advised to move up slowly, in a max of 2/10s of a grain increments. Depending on bullet weight chosen, max load should exist somewhere between 9 and 9.6 grains.

II. 17 Ackley Bee: Full Case: 13.8 grs of Blue Dot
a. minimum Load: 20% or 2.76 grs
b. 25% load: 3.45 grs
c. 30% load: 4.14 grs
d. 40% load: 5.52 grs
e. 50 % load: 6.9 grs
f. 60% load: 8.28 grs

After 6.9 grains, depending on bullet weight, work up in 2/10s of a grain increments, finding the max load existing between 7 grains and 8.3 grains. I’d even think about using a small pistol primer in this case.

III. 17 K Hornet: full Case: 11.6 grains of Blue Dot
a. minimum load: 20% or 2.32 grs
b. 25% load; 2.9 grs
c. 30% load: 3.48 grs
d. 40% load: 4.64 grs
e. 50% load: 5.8 grs
f. 60% load: 6.96 grs

After 5.8 grains, I would work up in 1/10 grain increments with this case. Depending upon bullet weight, max load should exist between 5.8 grains and 6.9 to 7 grains. I’d even think about using a small pistol primer in this case.

IV. 20 BR: Full Case Capacity: 28 grs
a.Minimum Load: 20% 5.6 grs
b. 25% Load: 7 grs
c. 30% Load: 8.4 grs
d. 40% load: 11.2 grs
e. 50 % load: 14 grs
f. f. 60% load: 16.8 grs

After 15 grains I would recommend proceeding in ½ grain increments and look for a max load to be somewhere between 16 and 17 grains. 2/10 a grain increments would be prudent after 16 grains, depending upon bullet weight. Large rifle primer is recommended with this case.


These guidelines are for experienced hand loaders. It is highly recommended to charge a case and then seat a bullet before continuing onto the next case.

THESE LOADS HAVE NOT BEEN TESTED. These are only submitted as academic guidelines. Safety is the personal responsibility of each individual for their own person.

The heavier the bullet weight, the slower one should approach what is listed as maximum load. One should proceed rather cautiously after reach the 50% case load.

cheers
seafire