I was chrongraphing some .243 loads the other day and was surprised to see a standard deviation of nearly 100fps over each 3-shot string. Load is - Norma cases, 24.5gr RL22, Speer 100gr SPBT, Fed 210. Velocity was between 2690 and 2790fsps.

Now, the load is accurate but that devaition will start to have an effect on longer shots. Could I get more consistency by changing to a Fed 215 primer? In any case, does the velocity sound about right for that load? I'm asking that because I obtained dissapointing velocity with my 7mm Rem Mag and I'm wondering if the Chrono is faulty.

24.5grs doesn't sound right. I always got more accurate loads in my .243 with 4064 and 4320, could still get a 100gr to 3000fps with the 4320

Spie, the 243 is known for that. If the difference in neck size between your loaded rounds and your sized brass is .002 or less, I'd polish down the expander ball a thousanth of an inch, first. Consistent neck tension is important.

Uniforming flash holes might have positive results too, depending on the brass (and yes, I've found burrs in Norma brass, too).

Finally, if you play with primers, I would suggest also trying a milder primer. My guess is that you might be surprised. HTH, Dutch.

I don't find it unusual to get 100 fps SD with a batch of powders in a variety of calibers. At practical hunting ranges of up to 300 yds, for game larger than a coyote, it doesn't make that much difference if you consult a trajectory chart.

RL 22 is one of those powers based on my own experiences in my use.

Personally I would not get too worked up about it.

Cheers and Good shooting
Seafire