QuickLoad Data for 300 WSM 175 LRX loads in Shorter Barrels?

[CoolhandLuchs]

I've been looking over data here for a while, and there seems to be quite a bit for the 300 WSM, but mostly 24" barrels. I built up a new elk rifle, but with a 20" barrel that I'm planning on running suppressed, once I overcome my analysis paralysis and things become more available. I've been starting load development with StaBall 6.5, but am wondering what choices there are for clean burning loads in shorter barrels? (trying to keep as much carbon out of the can as possible)

There are a lot of rabbit-holes out there, and I'd like to avoid as many as I can, and I'm hoping some QL data might steer me in the right direction.

Been looking at powders like:
StaBall 6.5
H4350
VV N555
RL 16 (can't find any)

Specs:
300 WSM | 3.2" Action Length | 20" Barrel Length
Barnes 175 LRX
ADG Brass
COAL: 3.10

Looking for:
Temperature stable (Colorado has wild temp swings in the fall)
100% Burn Rate/Clean Burning Powder in a short barrel
Goal of 3000 FPS, likely ambitious, but hey, why not?

Thanks for any advice or data you can give me!

 

[JaimeAdams]

In my opinion for 300 WSM with 20 barrel, you can try powders like StaBall 6.5, H4350 and VV N555 for clean performance and temperature stability. Here is my suggestion, hope it helps you.

smash karts​

 

[CoolhandLuchs]

Thanks @JaimeAdams, that's the plan. I managed to snag a couple pounds of N555 and even a pound of RL16 from Midway. I'll try those, if UPS ever delivers the order. I currently have a test set up with StaBall 6.5, but I don't think I'll have time to really dig into it before the season starts.

I did manage to do some testing with H4350 and the 175 LRX in the area I'll be hunting (7600' altitude). There appears to be some promise with H4350 in the short barrel: 65.7 grains gave a 3 shot average of 3025 FPS with an SD of 1.1 and an ES of 2.0, definitely worth another look. No signs of pressure, and in my previous ladder I didn't hit pressure signs until 67 grains. Keep in mind, I'm loading a COAL of 3.10" vs SAAMI max of 2.86" and my rifle has a lot of free-bore. These loads are likely over-pressure in a standard chamber.

 

[terrificheavily]

Powders to Consider
StaBall 6.5:
Pros: Known for its temperature stability and clean burning properties.
Cons: May not achieve the highest velocities compared to other powders.
H4350:
Pros: Excellent temperature stability and widely recommended for short barrels. Many users report good performance with 175-180 grain bullets in 20" barrels1.
Cons: Availability can sometimes be an issue.
VV N555:
Pros: Clean burning and temperature stable. It’s a good choice for achieving consistent performance in varying conditions.
Cons: Can be harder to find and more expensive.
RL 16:
Pros: Known for its temperature stability and good performance in short barrels. Users have reported achieving near 3000 FPS with 175 grain bullets2.
Cons: Availability is a common issue.

Load Data and Performance
H4350: Users have reported achieving around 2900 FPS with 175-180 grain bullets in 20" barrels1. This powder is often recommended for its balance of burn rate and clean performance.
StaBall 6.5: While it may not reach the highest velocities, it is a solid choice for clean burning and temperature stability.
VV N555: Offers a good balance of clean burning and performance, though specific velocity data for 20" barrels is less commonly reported.
RL 16: Some users have achieved close to 3000 FPS with 175 grain bullets, making it a strong contender if you can find it2.

Tips for Load Development
Start with H4350: Given its popularity and reported success in similar setups, it might be a good starting point.
Monitor Pressure Signs: Always watch for pressure signs as you work up your loads, especially with shorter barrels.
Consider a Chronograph: Using a chronograph can help you fine-tune your loads to achieve your velocity goals while ensuring safety.
geometry dash world
Conclusion
For your 300 WSM with a 20" barrel, H4350 and RL 16 seem to be the top recommendations based on user experiences and your requirements for clean burning and temperature stability. Achieving 3000 FPS is ambitious but not impossible with careful load development.