I have put together a 98 Mauser with Shilen 1-8 twist barrel. I am loading 162 gr. a-max bullets. This rig is to be used for long range shooting either target or varmint etc etc. Does anybody have any load data using rl-17 powder for the 7 x 57 Mauser and the heavier bullets. My usual standby IMR4350 is not grouping and I though I would try something different just to see if the groups change any.
I have used RL-17 in several cases including the 284 win. I tried to find data from Alliant. The closest is the 7-08: They list 44 grs with a 160.
http://www.alliantpowder.com/reloaders/powderlist.aspx?type=1&powderid=25&cartridge=70 With my 284 I have used RL-17 and the 162 A-max with absolute max load with a moly coated bullet at 58 gr for a velocity of 3100 from a 23" barrel.
The 7 x 57 is a bit larger than a 7-08 but smaller than a 284 win. I suggest you either call Alliant or start with the 7-08 load and work up.
From what others have said and my own experiences RL-17 charge weights are almost identical to the charge weights of H 4350.
This is on my 'to do' list also.
From the other cartridges I have played with RL 17 in, I have to vouche for it's accuracy potential a lot.. if you want the increased velocity, it is good for that also...
I'm more concerned about accuracy tho, over velocity.
wtr,
You read my mind; I've been thinking about asking this very question for a couple of weeks but kept forgetting.
I have a 98 Mauser w/ Shilen 1-8 twist in the works right now and RL-17 would certainly seem a great candidate for the heavies.
I look forward to hearing what others have to say.
Thanks for reading my mind!
efw
RL 17 works quite well in my #1 in 7x57 with 150 gr Solid Bases.
Tim
Tim,
Where in Western Michigan are you? I'm in Kentwood...
If it quits raining,I have some 175gr hornaday roundnose bullets that I will load andget back to you.
Well the sun didn't come out but it quit raining for a while.
These loads were loaded in new rem 7x57 brass,sized and trimmed to2.22 inches.
The powder charge was RL-17 45.0grs
The bullet was a hornaday 175gr roundnose with a crimp grove.The overall col was 2.9955.
The rifle was my mex action with a 24in shaw barrel
The groups were shot at 100 yards and I was supprised,cuz the rifle was sighted for the 140 nosler part.
The groups measured 1 3/4 inches,1in right and 2in to the left.
I didn't have any sun to use the chrony so these 12 pieces are reloaded and waiting for it to come out.They were nice to shoot,recoil was not bad.I may try them this year for deer.Hopes this helps
efw
Grand Haven, along with Passport and 7x57.
We shoot at the North Ottawa Rod and Gun Club and others.
Tim