Winter shooting with IMR4198?

[Kegcaissy]

Hi all!

I'm currently looking for a trip to the range this week but the outside temperature reach -15 celcius (about 5F). I know that my rifle will go bang and i will surely hit something with it but here's the question: what will happen at this low temperature? I'll be using IMR4198 in an enfield and a mosin.

Thank you

[Larry Gibson]

At that temperature accuracy will be more dependent on the lube than anything else followed by the intensity of the primer and pressure level of the load when developed in warmer weather.

[Kegcaissy]

Hi Mr Gibson!

I'm using Lee liquid alox.

It is a good idea to make the same load with magnum primers for winter?

[Larry Gibson]

Since the temp you're shooting at is extreme a magnum primer may help. I also suggest a Dacron filler and a heavier cast bullet of 190 - 220 gr. After the LLA is dry you might rub some SPG in the lube grooves. Can you get SPG?

[Kegcaissy]

What is SPG?

[Wayne Smith]

SPG is a Black Powder lube sold by Buffalo Arms Co.

[swheeler]

I was shooting 24.0 grs of IMR 4198 yesterday at 28*F in 8x57 with 3/4 gr dacron, didn't notice ignition problems with CCI 200. I didn't chrono, wish I had since load was worked up in 65 deg weather, impacts were 2-3 inches lower than last time rifle was out, groups were opened too, slight vertical string. 7 shot 100 yd was 1.7 wide and 2.7 high, 15 shot was approx 3W and 4H.

and first shot from cold barrel was always high and left of main group, about 2 H and 1 Left, that was the lube