I’m new to reloading and have a few questions on what I’m seeing in these pics....
I went to the range today to test these new loads but stopped after the first 3 shots as I didn’t want to kill myself.
I’m shooting a Sako AV in .375 H&H Ackley Improved. Cases are Federal nickel plated fire formed in this chamber from factory loads. Bullets are Barnes TSX 300g Primers are Winchester Large Rifle Magnum Powder is W760 Coal=3.637
Starting load was 79g, working up to 84g in 1g increments. Average FPS for 3 shots at 79g was 2580fps (2579,2594,2580).
I stopped after these 3 shots as I was getting marks on the base of the case from the bolt?, and sooty material on the outside of the case neck. Bolt lift was firmer than when closing the bolt, but not tough or difficult.
Are these signs of excessive pressure? What do they mean? Am I in the ballpark of proper loads here or should I reduce loads or switch to another powder? I know that load data for this cartridge is scarce and most people say to look at 375 Weatherby or max 375H&H loads for starting loads. Thanks!!
