IMR 4007 SSC- 300 WSM

[Big Squeeze]

I loaded up some varying charges of IMR 4007 SSC for accuracy/velocity testing and went to the range yesterday. I will save the targets, so when I do get the proper camera, I`ll join the high tech club and post pics, after I figure out how to do it..........Rifle info: Ruger Frontier 300 WSM w/16.5" barrel; 3x9 4200 scope..........Components: Bullet: 150 gr. Hornady SST (my favorite pig/hog bullets).......COL: 2.860"......Primer: WLRM......Case: Win......Chronograph: Pro Chrono Digital placed 10' from muzzle.....Temp: 62 degrees.....................The starting charge of 62.5 gr., produced a MV of 3022 fps. with a 3 shot group size of 1.043" (outer dimension; NOT center hole to center hole). Charges at 63.0, 63.5 and 64.0 grains all averaged 1.037" (outside to outside), with the expected increases in velocity and no pressure signs...........In the Hodgdon Reloading Manual Magazine and also on their web site, 63.7 gr. of 4007 is the listed maximum, with a velocity of 3220 fps. from a 24" barrel......My final charge was 64.5 gr. (.8 grain over the listed max). The MV for this load was 3118 fps. The 3 shot grouping size (total outer diameter), calibrated at 0.544 w/ all three holes overlapping one another (my personal best ever)!!..... There was no sticky bolt lift and no primer cratering. However, one case head had a very small shiny spot near the primer and was barely noticeable...........I find it interesting that this load, which is defintely the maximum, was also the most accurate!.............The average velocity deviations for all loadings were 12 fps. Neither load was compressed and 4007`s burn rate falls right in between H-380 and N-540.............If you haven`t tried 4007 yet, give it a try! An excellent powder for the 300 WSM`s!