.223 loads...

[medicstimpy]

I got this neat little Lyman mold for .224's but obviously it's a bold action bullet because going by the Lyman data, it doesn't even come close to cycling an AR.

I know I run a risk of gumming up the gas system but it's quite a neat accurate little bullet. Good for practice if I can get it to cycle.

Max load in the Lyman manual for IMR4227 (had some on the shelf) is 13.0 grains. I'm up to 15.6gr and it still won't cycle.

Anybody know just how high I can load the cases with this powder before 1) it give enough pressure to cycle the gas system, 2) will still let the bullets fly straight withoug tumbling & keyholing and 3) going KA-BOOM?

The book gives about 25000 (without going to look in the book for the exact number) for pressure at 13gr so it's no where near that of a FMJ factory or Varget load but still....

And suggestions would be appreciated.

[B52AG]

You’re absolutely correct about gumming up your gas system, not to mention excessive leading in your barrel. Most cast rifle bullet loads, such as your Lyman manual, that I have seen, have low velocity loads, for that very reason. Gas checks, if that bullet mold is designed for one, can reduce leading somewhat, but even then I’ve never seen cast bullet velocities approach, much less equal that of a jacketed bullet of the same cartridge.

If you don’t mind me suggesting it, why not invest in a sweet little single shot, heavy barrel like this H&R (http://www.hr1871.com/Firearms/Rifles/hunter.aspx)? It’s a fun and accurate little rifle to shoot, and would give you an outlet for casting your own bullets. Plus, it will save your AR for the type of shooting it was designed for.

IMHO

[medicstimpy]

Thanks for the info. I am concerned about the gas system but so far no leading with this bullet with the gas check. I put about 50 rounds through it so far with no barrel leading. Had to be single shot since it wouldn't cycle though. Nice accurate bullet. I think I'll try a reduced load of Varget next time when I can get some more.

I'll wait to get my bolt action to use it. Just thought it would be nice to use in the AR since I do a lot of casting and .223 components are hard to get here. Always on back-order. Factory ammo is still plentiful, just the bullets are har o find unless I use a Varmit/hunting type bullet.

[jeepinbanditrider]

Check out Wideners for .224 bullets. They usually have plenty in stock.

www.wideners.com

www.midwayusa.com usually doesn't have bad prices either.

Another option is www.powdervalleyinc.com