I would suggest changing bullets first, before changing powder or charge weights. I have a pre-64 M70 FWT that shoots factory everything in less than an inch. But I have a new TC Compass rifle that shoots Hornady 180 Light Mags(a 20 year old factory load they dont make anymore) in less than an inch, but wont get the Federal Premium Nosler 180 P's into less than 2". I then worked up a load for the Compass with Hornady 165 gr Interlock BTSP using Reloader 17 (because I'm out of 4350 and I found a 5lb jug of RL 17) starting at 50 grains and working up to 56.5. The last load tightened the group up to less than an inch, and printed 2875 fps, so I stopped there. Good enough for me. I prefer the 180's for elk, but the 165's were available and I think they will do the job if I do mine. I'm using CCI 200 Large Rifle primers in once fired R-P cases. I will save my 180 NP's for the Winchester rifle. Good luck.
|