.224 Valkyrie 18" 1/7 Barrel 90g SMK

[Core781]

Federal's revised Premium GMM 90g SMK cartridge is shooting well since the older bullets were revised and other cartridge components.

I have all the popular load data for the 90g SMK and I would appreciate any recommendations from some of the local experts.

My research shows the folks using 18" barrels are having luck pushing the powder charge a step below max recommended charge. I could use some recommendations: I will plan to test a set in my barrel. Keeping the fps high seems to be yielding accurate results in the sub 23" barrels.

One of my lingering questions is if I should use fire formed cases in my AR platform? Or if I should use my full length sizing die with hydro lube? My concerns are feed issues and extraction.

I know I can diagnose these issues and address them, but I don't want to suffer from confirmation bias if I manage to get a handful of test loads to perform well and end up experiencing issues in the field that could damage my bolt.

Federal 75g FMJ are shooting really well, but I need a good deer cartridge to load for when cartridges are difficult to obtain locally.

 

[Zen Archery]

I've had no issues with ejection/extraction using converted or fully fired formed cases.
Internal h20 weight 30.6gr., fire formed grows to 31.7gr per n my chamber.
Since my hunting ranges are way under cartridge capabilities. I developed a load potent enough to form the case but not so strong that it has any pressure signs.
Once I get enough fully formed cases to work with I'll develop a full load.

 

[Jamie]

In my AR platform rifles I use a full length sizer set up so that the case shoulder is moved back 0.003" and have not had any feeding/chambering issues. YMMV.

 

[Core781]

I can't thank you enough for sharing your experiences.