Home Forums Reloading Big Game Rifles 7mm / Partitions / Varget

I loaded a some 140 grn. Partitions with some H4350 and accuracy sucked. I have 5lbs of Varget but not seeing much published data using it with 140s. Anyone have have a load suggestions using Varget & 140 NPs?

Thanks.. BP...

Give us the cartridge.




P

Damn it... 7mm Mauser (7x57)

BP...

I loaded a some 140 grn. Partitions with some H4350 im 7mm mauser and accuracy sucked. I have 5lbs of Varget but not seeing much published data using it with 140s. Anyone have have a load suggestions using Varget & 140 NPs?

Thanks.. BP...

What were your H4350 loads? Did you push it hard enough?

What about your rifle? What do you KNOW about its accuracy potential?

I averaged 2730 fps withe 48.0 grn of H4350 to 2840 fps with 50.0 grns. Grouping was anywhere from 3" to 4". This is a new Win. 70 featherweight.
As far its accuracy potential I can only guess. I got better groups fire forming my brass with some Hornady spire points I had laying around.
I would like to get these Partitions to work if I can and I've got 5lbs of Varget just waiting to be used. I just haven't found any starting loads using that combination. I'm in no hurry. I enjoy the hunt to find that perfect load and I like to shoot.

BP...

There is data listed on the ADI web site which manufactures Varget. Look for 2208 powder as it is sold over here. It's pretty wimpy though.


Personally, I'd keep the Varget for something else and go back to H4350. Groups running 3 to 4 inches with Partitions and H4350 in a new Winchester rifle seems a bit weird to me. I'd be looking for other reasons for the group size instead of the powder.

I agree 100%.

I'd be questioning the scope, the mounts, and all that PLUS I'd make sure the action is fitting the stock properly. Loose guard screws can play havoc on accuracy.

Ahhh...the 7x57!! I miss mine a little. Mine was as finicky as anything I've ever loaded for (which has been a BUNCH), but like you I enjoyed the process and it taught me that sometimes subtle changes are all you need.

If anyone handed me a 7x57 today, I would start with a 140 or 150gr bullet and 4350 powder - just like you did. I went through several different 140s and 150s with mine with mediocre results. One day I split the difference and dropped the 145gr Speer in the case with the same powder, and my groups were immediately cut by 75% or so, including some cloverleaf groups at 100 yards. Same with the 150 to 160gr bullets. I shot several 150's and 160's with ok results, then one day loaded the 154gr Hornady and things got much better. Then instead of 4350 or something ike RL19, I used W760 and those 154s starting printing groups any hunter would love. I swore off W760 because of how it used to act in hot temperatures, but I just needed to be smarter when using it. Don't max it out in the winter only to see higher pressures in the summer. Do the opposite.

Seeing how you have a bunch of Varget, it may not be bad with 140s, but considering the burn rate of that powder and the 7x57 case, try something like the 120gr class bullet and that powder. If you are looking for a hunting load, that probably means something like the lighter Barnes TSX.

That's not a bad idea at all. A 120 Ballistic Tip may work well also. According to QuickLOAD you should be able to push it up to 3150 fps without going beyond 61000 psi using Varget.

Sounds like a look at rthe real basics. Thoroughly check the bedding, bolt handle inlet and visual condition of thoroughly cleaned barrel. My 7s always grouped very well, the only time or exceptions were in the cases of bedding issues.

My wife's 7x57 loves 150 Nosler Partitions. With 50.5 of RL-19 at about 2750, it will print 3/4 inch groups consistently We had hoped she would get a shot at a cow elk 2 weeks ago in N.M. but no luck..

Also you may need to start loading them a bit longer if you have a long throat in 7x57. Had that same problem with my M77 and once I checked throat length and started seating them out more that’s when my groups shrank to .5 MOA consistently.