Filler question

[jagdkampf]

I loaded up some different low velocity cast loads for my 03/A3 the other day and my son made an interesting observation. The loads were as follows:
1. 165 RCBS silouette bullet with 25 gr IMR 4895
2. 165 RCBS silouette bullet with 14.5 gr Alliant Power pistol
3. 165 RCBS silouette bullet with 15 gr Alliant Power pistol

My son noticed that when I shot the 4895 load that the dacron filler shot out of the barrel looking like dandelion pods, but the power pistol load did not produce any such effect. Any theories? On cleaning the rifle, I couldn't notice any appreciable difference in the bore. I used 1.1 gr of filler in all the loads.

Randy

[Larry Gibson]

Suggest dropping the amount of dacron in the 4895 load to 1/2 - 3/4 gr and work up load from 25 to 30 gr in 1/2 gr increments. Test at 100 yards for accuracy with at least 5 shot groups. Chronographing will be benificial in determining the ignition efficiency.

Suggest developing the Power Pistol loads with no filler or wad.

Larry Gibson

[Unclenick]

Power Pistol is burning hotter and faster and better. The 4895 load is having a lot of trouble with ignition at that charge level and is probably pushing a good bit of unlit or poorly lit powder forward like a plug that protects the polyester. It's really too slow a powder for the application. You'd likely get the same velocity and better consistency and economy from around 16 grains of Trail Boss, and the case would be much better filled and not need filler.