I am about to load my first rifle ammunition. I have read much here and have made some decisions. I will start out loading Lapua brass, Winchester large primers, and 125gr Nosler Partitions with IMR 4350. I am using the Nosler reloading manual for powder charge guidelines. The information I read indicates this should be a good middle of the road place to begin. This ammo will be shot from a Winchester Model 70 chambered in 6.5x55 with a 24†barrel.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Kevin

I'm a little unclear as to what advice you need. That is a good place to start. As to loads, start at the bottom and work your way up in one-grain increments. That sounds too easy, though. What else do you need?

Jaywalker

I use 51.0gr or RL-19 in my 6.5x55 with 120 gr Nosler B.T. I loaded some up for M1Tanker's 6.5 swede it is a model 70 and it shoots them real well.

John

Jaywalker,

I guess I was just looking for someone to tell me I had taken a well thought out path to what I hope will lead to success.

Kevin

kbebout-
your 6.5X55 will sing a pretty song with any slow-burning powder. It has been my experience that the 6.5X55 will do well with just about any rifle powder out there from 4895 to 4831.
So here it is: Grasshopper, you have chosen wisely...

I have thought about buying one of those 6.5x55s myself. I haven't read anything negative anywhere about them. Good Luck with your loads.

Okay, I have it now. Yes, the 6.5x55 and a Nosler bullet is an excellent place to start. Hornady would also be excellent - the bullets are cheaper, but accurate and effective on game.

More general advice:
- In general, do not believe any one reloading manual - always verify loads from multiple sources. They make mistakes.
- Buy a Lyman manual, not simply because it's another reloading load source, but because it's an excellent handloading guide.
- Wear safety goggles when working with primers or powder.
- Wash your hands after working with lead.
- Keep careful records of your loads - any change in components - primer, powder, brass bullets, or different lots from the same make of any of the above - should be considered a different component. Different components mean the lot you load is also different.
- Buy calipers.
- Read back postings here about headspace.
- Ask questions when confused. No one wants a "KB" (AKA, "kaboom," an unintended detonation).

Jaywalker