I've read numerous posts that the 500gr can be launched to approx 2350 with a max load of 86 grains of Varget, but I am interested in using Varget for the 300's through 450's.

I haven't been able to find any load data. It appears that Varget is very similar to 4895 in weight to pressure / velocity obtained, and might be a good starting point.

Has anyone reloaded the lighter weight bullets for the 458 Lott with Varget powder, and be willing to share recipies?

Varget is one of the most versitile powders out there it's like R-15 you can use it in many applications and it's burn rate is close to IMR 4350, R-15, H4350. It also is one of the most stable powders with heat/cold change. I used Varget with the 458 Lott and 450 grain bullets but cannot remember the load.

Varget is the Unique of rifle powders. I got up to 85gr with my Lott but found that there was a drop off in velocity gain with the last few grains and some primer flattening that I didn't like.

My usual load for 500gr jacketed bullets is 82.0 gr for 2,270 fps in MY rifle with Hornady brass (either Lott or Basic Belted cut to Lott length). I also use a few less grains behind a 500gr cast/gas checked Lee cast bullet that hits to the same POA.

I've loaded a few of the Hornady 350gr bullets but didn't see any utillity for the way I use the Lott so I just stick with the 500grs.

[Before you use any loading data I quote on the Internet remember that I usually drink tequila while I'm reloading]

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[Before you use any loading data I quote on the Internet remember that I usually drink tequila while I'm reloading]

Well, I have to ignore my wife while reloading, so it will probably equal out.

I looks like my loading software thinks Varget and 300gr might not be the best match.

98 Gr looks like it is right on the edge of a compressed load, but does get up to about 2800 fps @ 24" pressure looks reasonable.

With the 500GR, 86gr looks like it is 15% over max pressure.

All this is purely theory based on the models in the software... YMMV

However, If I put rick's load of 82 in, it predicts 2245 FPS, so the model is probably 'close' for this power/projectile/case combo.

-J

LOL That sounds like some pretty good software, which brand are you using?

I would like to try some 300 gr Barnes TSX in the Lott but haven't had the opportunity.

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Originally posted by mwm464:

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[Before you use any loading data I quote on the Internet remember that I usually drink tequila while I'm reloading]

Well, I have to ignore my wife while reloading, so it will probably equal out.

Sweet then, PM Short&Fat or check out the long thread on the AR's. S&F is currently playing with AR2208 (you call it Varget) and a 405gr projectile in the 458AR. Case capacity is pretty much the same. From memory using our BenchMark2 (your BenchMark) he was knocking on 2600fps with 405gr from the AR. Might be a handy reference using the 458AR cartridge for your load development.
Cheers...
Con

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LOL That sounds like some pretty good software, which brand are you using?

Quickload... not cheap at $150, but has proven to be very useful.

98 grains looks about right for the 300's.

If you get some time.... How much powder is estimated for the 350, 400, and 450's?

Thanks for the help.

The data below is not from any manual, and is potentially unsafe. This is predictive data from simulated powder in a simulated barrel on a computer.

***** You take all liability if you use, or attempt to use this data *******

start load was based on -25% max pressure, the top load listed is -15% off max pressure.

On the two lighter bullets we run out of capacity before we hit pressure limits.

I tried some faster and slower powders. I can get a bit more velocity, but only about 5% at the same pressure levels so varget looks reasonable powder for this case.

I might just have to hit a local shop that I know has some 1lb varget on the shelf.

These numbers have been slightly rounded off. data is with the projectiles available in the software.

350gr 92gr 2500fps
350gr 96gr 2675fps (compressed)

400gr 88gr 2400fps
400gr 91gr 2500fps (compressed)

500gr 74gr 2100fps
500gr 78gr 2175fps

Thanks for the data. It looks very similar & confirms all my other findings & estimates on this subject so far.

I might be limiting myself by sticking just to Varget, but from 223Rem through 308WIN (in my rifles), I have found no other powder as accurate or temperature consistant. There is very little change in velocity or zero from +110deg prairie dog shoots to -30deg coyote winter hunts. If only I could use it also in the 300WBY mag w/ 180's... but thats a whole different critter.