300 WM - long OAL

[orchemo]

Recently acquired a Browning X-bolt.
1:8 twist with a long throat and magazine

There is bullet seating data for just at or shy of 3.6 inches.

Barnes list data for their 208 gr bullet loaded to 3.6 inches.

Seems to me one would gain the "longer bullet" without losing case capacity. Win win.

Don't shoot much if any over 400 yds, so probably more academic than reality, but see no harm.

Thoughts?

 

[TackDriver284]

What bullet are you using?
If using a cup and core bullet, I would make the OAL long enough to fit in the magazine, and start at .010" off the lands.
If its a Barnes or copper bullet, I would make the OAL length long enough to fit in the magazine, and start at .050" off the lands.
Find a tune with your powder charges, adjust seating depth deeper if needed to tighten groups. Barnes has the recommendations on their website on seating depths.

Frequently Asked Questions

barnesbullets.com

 

[orchemo]

I loaded some 180 ABs initially to test out the rifle and get a zero on the scope. Maybe find time Thursday for the range.

I have 200 gr ABs also. The Barnes 208 would be an interesting option too,

Will see what shoots the best.

The barrel is a country mile long, will eventually have it trimmed to 20-22 inches for using a suppressor.

 

[thatguySHM]

Biggest problem you'll have is OAL restrictions in the magazine. I load for a hunting buddy who has a 300 WM speed, had to lengthen the mag out and still didn't gain too much. It's a fine shooter but his had the 26" barrel and it was awfully thin. Took awhile before we found a load that would work. Then RL26 became unavailable and we had to start over. We went with the 175 LRX just for the extra velocity on a solid bullet.