Yeah, "back in the day" RL-15, Varget, etc, but there are much better powders now that have safely added 300 fps to the old formulas from equal length barrels. 2700 fps is now a "normal" goal from 250 grainers. Then, it's been finally "realized" that Saami pressure is NOT 52,000 psi, but 52, 000 CUP which is 62,000 PSI!
All former manual loads were based on the false conception that CUP and PSI were the same pressure! Then when Remington made the .35 Whelen legit, and published their 250gr at 2400 fps from a 24" barrel, THAT became the standard in the minds of writers, technicians and hobbyists. That is, except for some of us!
From a 24" barrel using "new" powders, like those mentioned, 2700 fps from 250s is the "new normal" within 62,000 PSI.
Edited to add: Those ballistics equal the original claimed for the .338 Winchester Magnum at 64,000 PSI from a 24", and 8 - 10 grs less powder. Reason? The .35 has a better expansion ratio than a .33 and profits from a faster powder - which means less powder = less recoil for the same effect if rifles weigh the same... OR same recoil at less weight for the .35 Whelen.
Bob
www.bigbores.ca
