Load date for RL-17 for the 6.5 Creedmoor Berger 140 gr Hybrid target bullets?

[NavyDavy55]

Has anyone used RL-17 for the Berger 140 gr Hybrid target bullets and if so how much?

I loaded up some Berger 140 gr Hybrid target with RL-19 according to the Berger Load manual ans used 43.0 grams of powder. My average FPS was ONLY 2558 when it should have been close 2699. I shot them all so I can't go back and remeasure.

Same day I loaded and shot some ELD-M 140 gr with 41.3 grams of RL-17 and they shot 2705 FPS. I really like the RL-17 for the Hornaday bullets and don't know why it's not used for the Berger bullets.

So did I measure the RL-19 wrong or what? I'm not sure and will load some more this weekend and be very careful to watch my measurements. It was all the same brass, primers and the same COAL.

I emailed Berger today and they said I have to call to get that info, they won't email it anymore. So if I can find time tomorrow I will call them.

Thanks.

[eightmillimeter]

RL19 is too slow for the Creed. Not enough case volume. You run out of room before hitting velocity. I did a similar experiment once with H4831sc thinking I could get some extra velocity and had results almost as disappointing as yours and was compressing the hell out of the powder before max.

I've heard of 42-42.5 RL17 with ELD, but not Berger. 2800-2850 ish in 26" tube. ETA: this is obviously over most published data so use at your own risk. But hey, PRS pros (not me) are known to push the limits.

H4350 is still king for the Creed although 4451 is gaining popularity. RL16 (new last year) shows good numbers for those who have used it but hasn't caught on yet either.

[wilson1911]

H4831sc should only be used for the new 147's, albeit its not the fastest.

140 class bullets H4350, IMR4451, RL 16 will all work.

RL 17 is temp sensitive so you have to watch when the temps get high. It does run them fast tho.

Quickload shows 2616fps at 43 grains of 4831sc.

RL17 shows 2727 at 41 grains & 2810 at 42 grains... This is the area you want to be in. I am not sure what brass you are running, but your case volume will make a difference. You can run RL17 fast, but your pockets will not last.

Start at 41 grains and work up in .3 increments.