Powder selection question

[treefarmer]

I reload several rifle cartridges with core-lok type bullets and have used IMR 4064 for all of them. I've always used the IMR reloading guide for my charge weights. I want to start reloading using all copper Barnes bullets and notice their reloading data only lists 2 powders for each of their bullets. Can I use my 4064 if I find IMR data for a same-weight bullet or does the copper change everything and I have to use the Barne's recommendations? I reload 30-06, .243, and .35 Remington.

 

[Rubberduck270]

Barnes bullets do odd things with pressures and generally you need to use only their data for their bullets. You do occasionally run across load info for their bullets on Hodgon's data page http://data.hodgdon.com/main_menu.asp

You also want to keep the Barnes about .050" off the lands for your seating depth (per their recommendations) and as always, keep an eye out for pressure signs.

 

[Jcalder]

I load some Barnes and usually use the same load for regular cup and core bullets. As always start low and check for signs. You may email them and see what they say

 

[DaveB]

Definitely email Barnes. The (generally) longer bullet has more bearing surface which in turn causes/generates higher chamber pressures. Use a chrony and you will see that a 243 cup & core bullet of the same weight as the barnes with the same amount of powder will generate higher FPS. This indicates the pressure required to push the bullet out of the barrel is higher with the Barnes.

Your hopefully first overpressure sign will be flattened primers and cupped firing pin holes. If you have trouble extracting the empty brass you need to exercise care as that is bad juju.

 

[bjohnson]

http://www.gsgroup.co.za/burnrates.html

Here is a chart to compare burn rates of different powders so if you can't find one in stock, maybe you can find something close.

 

[Tiny]

Problem with most of the Bullets Companys an there manuals is they only list data with powders that gave them the best results.
If u cant find a powder listed u want to try give the company a call and if that don't start low an work up.
Depending on Cal an Bullet Weight should be able to use IMR 4064 with the same weight Barnes IMHO an experience.

 

[treefarmer]

Thanks for the advice. I e-mailed Barnes and they didn't reply so I phoned and they gave me the information over the phone.