I load VV powders which are to CIP data and so generaly higher in their pressure interpretation of Mauser loads. As I approach max loads pressure signs start to appear in my rifles and I back off. They are nowhere near the velocities I often see quoted on the internet and actualy I don't give a stuff because I do accurately get the velocities the rounds made their reputation on.

But I do wonder - are people ignoring things such as flattened primers etc just because they have strong actions, do I just have 3 slow rifles (6.5x55, 7x57 and 9.3x62)or is the 7x57 the most abused cartridge currently used?

1894,

The caliber I have had in more different rifles (and rebarrels) is the 375 H&H.

If many of the figures shown on the internet are correct, then I have had at least 50 or 60 slow barrels as well as having been directly involed with what also appear to be many other slow barrels.

But not only have I experienced many slow barrels but they have also been inaccurate as a bonus

However, we are upside down in this part of the world and I guess the bullets have to go uphill.

Mike

/

At the moment I only have a couple of 8mm's, both Oberndorf Mausers, to play with. Using a full charge IMR4064, I can safely push a 150gr in the 2900-3000fps range. This is the only load that I use in them, and I've taken it directly from published data which lists the velocity at 2940(I think). I seem to recall that the original 150gr spitzer load was around 2700?

In any case, I think that some of these velocities can be achieved by using the right powder. 2900fps is smoking AFAIC. The VV powders are excellent - the only thing I can think of is that, perhaps, a slower VV powder is needed.

I don't think there really is a question of reaching those velocities rather is it happening at the cost of ignoring overpressure signs.

Some people seem to just pick a load, and shoot it. Several new reloaders I have spoken with have not been fully aware of high pressure signs and felt "safe" behind a I can sue atitude. Now most of us know that is BS and are aware of the risk invovled with not seeing these signs, but not all. Now days I see many being more concerned with how many/fast they can load, not how 'accurate' can they make them. 1894, you make a good point.

JAG
Hood River, OR

I think that the problem is that there are a great many shooters who, shall we say, embellish the ballistics they obtain in their rifles and then there are others who feel that they have to push their loads to the maximum. Alf mentioned the .404 Jeffrey, as one example, and just last night I saw some data on that calibre, in this forum, that was absolutely ridiculous and, dare I suggest, impossible.

I am often amazed at the reloading practices of many of my fellow shooters and the loads that they develop are often well outside sensible limits.

The rifle and cartridge manufacturers, are partly responsible here, in promoting all of the new, fandangled ultra-magnums, and the like, but we would all do well to remember that more critters (and people for that matter) have been felled with standard calibres, shooting moderate pressure loads - just like the 7x57 and the like, than with all of the ultra velocity stuff put together.

I have reloaded for dozens of rifles and handgun and almost all of them shot best with loads that were moderate and just a step, or two, back from full loads...and I am sure that most reloaders will have had similar experiences.