.243AI Which powder with 107 SMK?

[TORCHRIDER]

It looks like powder recommendations for the heavier .243AI are all over the place, from H414 to H4350 to H4831 to R22 to the really heavy magnum powders like R25, H1000 and Retumbo.

Which ONE powder should I start with for this bullet? I dont want to burn up 1/2 the barrel life searching for a good powder. I am running a Shilen 1/8 twist barrel.

 

[Freebore]

H4350 41.6 Fed 210m primer 107SMK 3036 fps JimB load. Extremely Accurate with SMKs jumped .040" in Schneider barrel.

H4831sc 47.2 Russian primer 107SMK 3238 fps Chuckhunter load. Accurate and repeatable. Jump .007". Sub-inch at 300 yards. Near max

These loads from 6mmBR web site for the 243AI one for target, one for hunting

Both of these powders are 'Extreme' meaning they'll work in a variety of temperatures.

Like any other loading work your way up. Nothing wrong with burning a barrel....they make better ones every year. You should get 2k rounds if you don't get 'er too hot. I have a 1-10 twist barrel w/2300 rounds down it and it still shoots under 1/2" at 200 yards with match bullets.

 

[roaddog1m]

I have had great luck with my 6-06AI (105gr. berger thru my 8 twist Shilen)using RL-17. Lower pressure and higher velocities. Not sure how well it will work with the 243 case though. Just a thought.

 

[TORCHRIDER]

Thanks Guys. I know going with a slower powder (R22, R25, Retumbo) will give me a little more velocity at the same pressure, but wonder about accuracy. Just dont want to leave anything on the table. gun)

 

[Trickymissfit]

I use H1000 with a 105 grain Amax in my 6/250AI, and these two are not all that far apart.
gary