Yeah, that last few hundred fps costs a bunch in powder and blast.
My 6.5-284 will push a 140 VLD at around 3K with 48.8 gr. RL-17. Now, with the 26 Nosler, it takes 88 gr. US 869 to push a 140 gr. NAB at 3,300 fps, according to Nosler data. Their accuracy load is down at 3,175 fps with 84 gr. US 869.
The Berger VLD probably has less bearing surface/friction than the NAB, so that may make some difference. I see you're getting 3,337 fps with the 140 VLD, same 88 gr. load and good accuracy.
This is going to be an interesting project, no doubt.
DF
