08-19-2020, 03:42 PM
I've been using the Lyman cast bullet manual for most reduced loading. I just sub a jacketed bullet and stay away from max loadings. The best accuracy is almost always in the lower to mid loadings anyway. One minor problem with reduced loads is there's often not enough pressure to fully form the cases to the chamber so the brass' headspace datum is actually shortened maybe .002-.003", probably from getting smacked by the firing pin.
I have used reduced loads only in bolt actions till a few days ago. I just got a new M1A Springfield Standard. Just for fun I tried some 308 reduced loads (168SMK/ 22.5 5744 @ 2.810"). Figured I'd have to close the gas off and hand cycle it but it cycled just fine and dropped the brass right on the bench These loads are in only around 1800 fps and pretty accurate.
I have used reduced loads only in bolt actions till a few days ago. I just got a new M1A Springfield Standard. Just for fun I tried some 308 reduced loads (168SMK/ 22.5 5744 @ 2.810"). Figured I'd have to close the gas off and hand cycle it but it cycled just fine and dropped the brass right on the bench These loads are in only around 1800 fps and pretty accurate.