Latest results involve firing the Hornady DGX, Barnes Banded Solid and Swift A-Frame. All are 400 grain 0.423" bullets.
Because pressure appears to spike fairly rapidly with BL(C)-2, H-414 was used for the latest firings. Further testing with H-380 seems indicated in late summer. Other components are Fed 215M primers, and Hornady cases. The cases were formed by either expanding 416 Ruger cases or forming and trimming 375 Ruger Basic (cylindrical) cases. A Redding 416 Ruger FL sizing die with the neck reamed an additional 0.005" and a tapered expander button was used for the forming in a single pass. COAL with all bullets = 3.420"
Firing results (T = 61-66 deg F, instrumental readings at 15'):
Swift 400 gn AF, H-414 73-83 gns = 2150-2252 fps KE = 3612-3939 ft-lbs
Hornady DGX 400 gn H-414 77-82 gns = 2200-2269 fps KE = 3760-3969 ft-lbs
Barnes Banded Solid 400 gn H-414 75-80 gns = 2166-2239 fps KE = 3651-3898 ft-lbs
Recoil (max) with the 8.25 lb rifle in a Rimrock stock is about 45-53 ft-lbs, but fairly fast.
After returning from hunting with the 404 in August will write a detailed article on the development of this cartridge. Seems close to ideal for buffalo with any of the 400 grain expanding bullets tested. On the light side, but probably usable on elephant with the monolithic solids, as these loads surpass original 404 Jeffery ballistics.
Would like to thank muledeer (Dennis) for the original idea and Ray for his encouragement on the project.
