I picked up some sierra 85 gr hp's today and was wanting to load some up to try out, but I don't know how much powder I should start out with. I am wanting to use IMR3031. I have been shooting around 39 grains with some 100 grain nosler bt's. I was wondering if the same amount would be alright.

The caliber might help~

sorry about that, it is a 6.5x55.

IMR-3031 From 38.6 grains to 43.5 grains
Remington 9-1/2 Primer

But you might be happier with:

IMR-4064 From 40.3 grains to 47.0 grains
Remington 9-1/2 Primer

I don't have my manual in front of me, but I think 3031 is a bit fast for optimum performance in the 6.5. IMR4895 or 4064 would give you better perf.

[ 11-08-2003, 01:34: Message edited by: fredj338 ]

Thanks for the replys. I have some of the IMR4064, but I also have some H4227, was wondering if there were any loads with this for the 6.5x55.

I have a Remington Classic in 6.5x55 and use IMR4064 48grs. with the Sierra 85gr. HP. It has a velocity of 3200fps and prints .4" (5 shots/100yds) Because of bullet length I only load it out to 2.895". You'd be hard pressed to beat IMR4064 in this caliber. Most rifles seem to do well with it. Best wishes.

Cal - Montreal

4227 isn't suitable for this caliber.

The 6.5x57 which I load for is pretty close to a 6.5x55. I have excellent results with the combination 85 grains Sierra and H4227: 28 grains and Fed 210M gives some 2780 fps, hardly any recoil and sub MOA (5 shot) accuracy. Ideal for target shooting, killing foxes etc.