Trshp,
When I first bought my 221 Fireball barrel, I asked guys for their favorite powder for it. The most commonly rec'd powders at the time were (in no particular order): RL 7, AA 1680, and 4227. In my 12" Contender barrel from VVCG, using 40 gr V-Max bullets, I tried H 110 and IMR 4227. At 100 yds, H 110 wouldn't hardly stay on a notebook-sized sheet of paper so I didn't pursue it any further. On the other hand, my work w/ H4227 was VERY satisfying. 17.0 gr (2940 fps) and 17.5 gr (3020 fps) of 4227 both shoot 1/2-3/4 MOA at 100 yds (3 shot groups) using a 3-12 Burris LER scope. I used Rem 7 1/2 primers in virgin Rem brass; OAL was 1.935", 0.02" off the lands. I settled on the 17.0 gr load as I figured 2940 fps was plenty velocity w/o having to "hot rod" the barrel any. Afterall, if I want more velocity, I'll bring out my Contender 223 Rem barrel,my 22 Rem BR XP-100, or my 22-250 AI Encore. I've not tried any other powders or bullets in my barrel. Actually, I lucked up on "the load" in the FIRST 12-15 shots. I bet you'll like your 221 Fireball rifle. Gary T.

A friend of mine is VERY happy with Lil'Gun in his .221 Fireball. I believe he uses the 45 gr. VMAX.