378Canuck,
Slow getting back to you. Been hunting. Those loads work great in my Pre-64 M-70 with Krieger SS Match, 8.5 twist Bbl. The Vv 165 load of 52.3 seems a bit hot with Berger 140's. No primer problems, just shiney marks on the case head and slight resistance opening the bolt. Subtle, not blatent signs. Perfect performance 52.3 gr. Vv 165 with SST 140's, which has been my stand by load.
Over 48.8 gr. RL-17, groups opened up with SST's. Haven't yet tried the Bergers with RL-17. If one was wanting to push 140's at or slightly above 3,000 fps, I think RL-17 would be the way to go. I don't know of any other powder that can do that.
I see people using lighter bullets, and I may try some. I had chosen the 140's for their retained energy at extended range. Performance was so good, I haven't tried other weights, as this gun is mainly used for Whitetails and Pronghorns, with the occasional 'yote or hog.
DF
