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View Full Version : S&W .500, RCBS 50-340-SWC & Accurate #5



onondaga
01-12-2011, 12:34 AM
I bought that mold when I first got the .500 barrel for my Handi Rifle a couple years ago and tested it very little as I soon settled on a lighter bullet that shot real well. My bullet alloy is 19 BHN and bullets drop at .5035" The reason I want to try this bullet again is that it has a big flat nose with a .350" meplat that will be better for hunting than my present bullet.

I'd like to try this bullet again and noticed an unverified load #645 over on reloadersnest.com. The charge listed is 20 gr. Accurate #5. This is the same powder I use in my 12 gauge slug loads. I've tried many different powders in the .500 but never tried the Accurate #5. The load lists a velocity of 1309 in a 8.375" pistol barrel.

The unverified loads at that site concern me as there is no indication if the load is at or near maximum. Of course I will start 5% less and work up to see what happens with pressure signs and accuracy.

The Accurate #5 is a double base smokeless powder so it bangs louder, that is OK but does anybody think I should have any reservations before I try this powder in my rifle? Is it a spikey powder with pressure quirks? Is this a fast hot powder prone to gas jetting plain base bullets?. I know it measures very consistently in my Lyman #55 from using it for my slug loads and I get great accuracy with the 12 gauge slugs. But other than that I have not used this powder before.

Gary

bdutro
01-12-2011, 12:59 AM
What bullet weight was listed at the reloadersnest? Was it cast or jacketed? Solid?

Stick to trusted data sources. #5 is a fast, dense powder for that cartridge.

onondaga
01-12-2011, 01:52 AM
The bullet is the one I mentioned, a 340 grain cast bullet from the RCBS mold 50-340-SWC.

Gary

DukeInFlorida
01-12-2011, 09:13 AM
I like LilGun made by Hodgdon for my .500 S&W Magnum. Reload data in the Lyman book.

I have also used a LOT of Trail Boss (also by Hodgdon) in that caliber! It makes for gentle firing of even heavy bullets.

Don1955
01-12-2011, 11:35 AM
My favorite load in the 500 is 15 gr. Unique and the lee 440 which loads at 460 w/check and lube.
Don

frkelly74
01-12-2011, 08:41 PM
How about a 500 Lee modern mini. I think those are about 360 gr and look like a wad cutter bullet and have a large hollow base. I would think that they would be easy to keep stable. I know you were asking about powder but but it might be something else to think about.