Jimbo Jones Posted January 28, 2019 Report Share Posted January 28, 2019 Hi All, New to the forum, although I have been following it for a few years. I have joined up in the hope that someone can help me with a few questions on reloading? I want to load some .223 Remington for a Mini-14 for plinking. The club’s maximum permitted velocity is 2150 fps. I have found a few starting loads on the Vihtavuori website that could potentially work (I already have N150, so this would be preferred). N140 19.3gr, Berger 90gr, 2119 fps N150 19.4 gr, Berger 90gr, 2136 fps N140 19.3 gr, Sierra 90gr, 2100 fps N150 19.1 gr, Sierra 90gr 2126 fps So my questions are: Are these too close to the range limit to be considered? The load lists a C.O.L. of 2.457” for Berger and 2.354” for Sierra. Do I still need to make a few test rounds at different bullet seating depths to find the optimal length? Or will they be safe at the listed length in my rifle? The load data states Lapua cases. Could I use PPU or Federal instead? I currently load .308 where I was shown to neck size the case and then press the bullet in (no crimp). Would the loads above be the same, or should they be crimped? Do they have to be full length sized as in the Vihtavuori data, or can I just neck size? Failing the above being suitable, can anyone suggest a safe load for .223 under 2150 fps that doesn’t use a non-REACH powder? Thanks in advance, Jimbo Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew Posted January 28, 2019 Report Share Posted January 28, 2019 If you're loading for a Mini14 the mag length will determine the over-all length. Small Base Full Length dies are the ones you need and then FL resize at every loading. I would crimp. As to loads, shoot what functions and then chronograph it or consider that load data is usually based on a 24" barrel and your loads listed at under 2150 will probably be more so with the Mini-14's shorter barrel.~Andrew Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimbo Jones Posted January 28, 2019 Author Report Share Posted January 28, 2019 Hi Andrew, many thanks for taking the time to reply. Based on the velocities being higher through a Mini-14, I would guess that these Vit loads are a non-starter. I am just finding it difficult to find a data source I trust (and where the powder is readily available) for a lower velocity .223" Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew Posted January 28, 2019 Report Share Posted January 28, 2019 Maybe I didn't make my self clear. I believe the velocities will be lower, not higher.~Andrew Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimbo Jones Posted January 28, 2019 Author Report Share Posted January 28, 2019 Thanks for clarification. I see your point about the overall length though, the Berger and Sierra reloads are longer than my factory ammo so something else to check Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bradders Posted January 28, 2019 Report Share Posted January 28, 2019 You won't be able to shoot 90gn bullets in your Mini 14, apart from OAL issues the twist rate will be too slow and they'll be really unstable in your 1:9 You need a 1:7 twist at the very least but even faster if possible, especially given the slow speeds you're talking about The heaviest bullet you can hopefully shoot will be around 70gns, but with that will come more velocity I think you're flogging a dead horse with this one Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimbo Jones Posted January 28, 2019 Author Report Share Posted January 28, 2019 Hi Bradders. many thanks for the help, it's much appreciated. Thought it best to check with people more knowledgeable on the subject. Probably time to invest in a pistol calibre rifle! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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