Been trying to find a solid load for my 7mm Mag Sendero rifle. Havent found anything I like so I figure I will ask you guys.

Rifle is a hunting rifle, but not dangerous game. Its my long range varmint gun. It started life as a 700 model Sendero. I added a few modifications to improve accuracy as much as possible. Now its time to find the right load.

I have shot quite a bit of premium box ammo and none live up to my expectations. I want this rifle to shoot out too 1000 yards consistently.

So im open to suggestions for the load. I have tried a few comsinations out of the books and nothing seems to hold accuracy past 550yards. I think my next try will be some Nosler ballistic 150 grains. Accubonds didnt seem to like distance...

I think part of the issue is that you are trying to shoot to 1,000 yards with hunting bullets.

I would try the Berger bullets that are supposed to be suitable for hunting. For my long range varminting I use Sierra Matchkings.

Well the whole purpose of me assembling this rifle they way I did was to take it long range hunting. So my hunting loads need to be able to reach those ranges.

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Originally posted by Brando:
Been trying to find a solid load for my 7mm Mag Sendero rifle. Havent found anything I like so I figure I will ask you guys.

Rifle is a hunting rifle, but not dangerous game. Its my long range varmint gun.

What kind of varmints are you shooting at 1000 yards? Coyotes? Sod Puppies?

Like Fjold said, if that's what your game is, you don't need an Accubond. Try some target bullets.

I think if you are after big game from 500 to 1000, I would try some standard cup and core type bullets like the Game King. I'm shooting the 160gr BTHP Game King in my 7 RUM. Just worked the load and haven't tried it on game, but I'm confident in the bullet.

The other thing is your load development. It could be why you are having accuracy problems past 500 yards. What method are you using?

I've had great success with load development using the Audette's ladder test, but make sure you do it at long range. Minimum of 300 yards. I've shot two now at 500 yards that have really nailed down THE load for the rifles in question when you find the bullet your barrel likes the best. If you are planning on using the rifle like you say, your long range hunting rifle, this is the best way to do the development.

Maybe your mods are the issue? I never modify ay gun until establishing a base line for accuracy, JMO.
I would look to the 160grNAB, 150grTTSX or Hornady SST or IB for long range hunting bullets. It will be a matter of finding a good comob. I prefer powders on the slower side, H4831sc being the fastest. IMR7828ssc being my fav w/ 150gr-175gr bullets.

160 Nosler Accubond and 66 grains of RL 22.

My favorite powder for 150 gr and less is RL 22 but for long range you'll probably need something heavier. For me Retumbo is for 160 and above. Try the Berger 168 gr. For factory stuff HSM loads them for long range hunting.

What's wrong with Berger VLD's. If your rifle won't shoot those then you might have a rifle problem. The Bergers come in both hunting and target varieties.
Peter.

Its mostly a small game gun for Yote's and similar things I would like to take aim on if the chance presents itself. Maybe the occasional ground hog, and if the season was correct and the correct Whitetail presented himself I would not even hesitate to take a shot if the rifle was dialed in correctly.

As for load development, I have been using that exact ladder method mentioned. I pulled it from this site a few months back when I first started reloading, and found it quite useful.

I guess my main question was what is a good bullet to use at those ranges and still be capable of taking down thin skinned or varmint game. I would never want this to be a large or dangerous game rifle. Its way too pretty and way to heavy to lug around in the woods.

Use target bullets then.

A-Max, Match Kings, Bergers, Nosler Custom Competition, Lapua Scenars.

Has anyone had adverse accuracy with the hollow point Bergers? THat 168 grain looks appealing, but im half afraid of a hollow point on a magnum rifle.

They'll be fine for your application.

Berger 168 VLD's and Reloader 19. Light bullets are for closer stuff, check your ballistic tables you need heavier for caliber once you start reaching out.

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They'll be fine for your application.

R

With that combination I have killed ( with one shot ) Gemsbuck, Kudu, Black Wildebeest, Axis, Whitetail, Aodad, Hogs and a bit of the little stuff.

As you can see I kinda like those Bergers in my 7 Mag.

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Ordered 100 of the 168 Bergers, hopefully my barrel will like them and I can get tighter groups out past 500 now.

I really believe that if you do the Audette's test properly, on a calm day, at say 700 yards (since you want to use the load at this range) you will find the bullet/load.

Make sure you squeeze each shot exactly the same. If you're shooting from a bi-pod, shoot prone in the dirt and pre-load the bi-pod with some forward force, hand on the rear bag, kick pad firmly controlled in the shoulder.

Shoot every shot through the chrono. Drive up to the target on every shot and mark it, it gives your barrel exactly the right amount of time to cool