Anyone loading for the .505 Empire? I obtained some loading data from George Sandmann when I bought my Empire .505 for IMR4895 powder using 600 grain Woodleigh bullets. I have been getting 2125fps with 96 grains of IMR4895 and the 600 grain Woodleigh from my rifles 22 inch barrel. I was looking for some data using other powders if there was anything out there.

The 505empire is nearly the same case capacity as the 500accrel. George and I talked, at length, about the practicality of faster loads, hunting, and recoil. H335 will take you about as fast as your shoulder will bear, if you have quick load to start

The round is designed to give the shooter XX nitro power, in a lower recoiling bolt gun, and is 2150 by design, not case limits

Steven, I have a 505 Empire as well; one made for writer Terry Wieland. There's a guy in Florida who is a small-time reloading company. He loads for the 505 Empire.

His name is Jimmy Moreland...email him at jmoreland@webtv.net

Steven

I uploaded (and downloaded) my 505 Gibbs when testing the 600gn Woodleigh's to get an idea of what occurred at various impact velocities.

I didn't notice any better killing factor just because I gave my shoulder a bigger hit.

Bullet weight (600gn vs 525gn) was a bigger factor when the animal was hit and it's effect IMHO. But then again, not many animals survive any hit with a Plus .50 calibre bullet in the right place.

Hope that helps.

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Biebs, I'll make contact with Jimmy Moreland and see what loading data he has. I have looked at the photographs of your .505, which are posted on Empire's site and it is a beautiful rifle. Based on the experience I have had with Empire Rifles George Sandmann makes a great rifle.

I would also like to thank everyone for the information you have given me.

Steven, thanks. Yes, George really went all out on that one. I have it on Guns International now, item 100136754. I just dropped it $1,000....have to come up with $$$ for the falling block double rifle Bailey Bradshaw is building me!