Where can I find loading data on the 7x57AI? I have looked everywhere I can think off with no luck. Daniel
Google 7 X 57 AI data
Here's what came up for me
http://www.accuratereloading.com/757ackley.html
I believe PO Ackley may have increased loads by 5%. I usually end up around that somewhere with mine. Probably a little less
DL, I've had the 7x57Ackley for my main hunting rifle for over 25years now. I don't have a lot of loading data as I lucked upon my load shortly after building my rifle. About 4% over 7x57 loads is about as good a place as any to start and stop. I shoot 56.5gr of RL19 in mine and have since day one. I get a little over 3050fps w/Norma brass and 140gr Ballistic tip. I wouLd start w/IMR4350, H4831, and RL19&22. Start around 53gr and work up. You should start seeing signs of pressure around 56,57gr. powdr
RL-17 is good too? I'm sure you'll love the cartridge as I have 3 AI'd cartridges I am sold on! Yeah it's a little more hassle, but worth it to me!
Otis, Biggest problem with the 7x57 AI that I got Saturday is the fact that my wife has claimed it!!!!
It's nothing more than a short fat 280. One can use start loads for the 280 and work up slowly. powdr
What bullet are you thinking? I'm building one (it's been on back burner for tooooo long....) and I'm either probably going with the NPT 140.
Fremont, I plan on going with a 150 gr first simply because the wife & I have an elk hunt planned (1st ever)this fall. This 7x57AI will be her primary gun if I can get some loads to suit me. I will use 140's afterwards for the whitetails here in East Texas.
Fremont, since your going to have a long action, you might as well build a 280. Of course, unless you're a loony like me. I've loved my 7x57AI and it's still the rifle I reach for when the hunting gets serious but it's still just a 280 in a shorter package. The 140gr bullet made it popular but the 150gr bullet is a better all round bullet. The 160gr is a great bullet in the Partition but won't do anything the 150 can't do. The 280 has slowly gained respect over the years but it'll never be as popular as the 270 and the 280Improved has it in still another shadow. The 280 is a great cartridge and should stand alone on it's own merits. Outside the big bears, it doesn't have to stand in the shadow of any other cartridge. Get a manual and check it out...you'll be surprised. I wouldn't be afraid at all to hunt the lower 48 grizzly w/the 175gr Partition at 2800fps. powdr
Ok Guys, I thought I knew the answer to this question but not sure now. 7x57 the 7 stands for the caliber 7mm. What does the 57 stand for?? Daniel
7 stands for the 7mm or .284 bore size...the 57mm is how long the case is. powdr