05-10-2022, 08:11 PM
So, I'm still chasing this problem and could use some more advice. I did single charges of various powders looking for the highest velocity I can get with each before seeing ejector marks on the brass. I start running into problems at 2275 fps with AR Comp, 2325 for Benchmark, 2300 for Varget, and 2325 for BLC2. That's with a 20" barrel and 123 ELDM's just to recap.
I'd be fine with some of those numbers except those numbers aren't nodes, their upper limits. There is probably an accuracy node I could find, but only by going even slower. I've tried 3 different BCG's, two different lowers (one rifle buffer one H3 carbine buffer).
AR Comp gives me single digit ES and SD's for 5-shot groups with excellent accuracy. I'm not looking for a hot rod load, but don't think I should have to settle for 2200 fps out of a 20" barrel either.
I have two specific requests for input.
First, how fast can you push a 123gr bullet out of your 20" barrel before harming your brass? I'm trying to see if I have unrealistic expectations for my barrel and this input would go a long way to helping me understand that.
Second, if I have to get a new barrel to achieve my goals, what are my options? I really like a 20" barrel with a relatively heavy contour and I'd prefer it to be fluted. That's just my preference. I can't really find anything out there that has those specs. I don't want to say that money is no object, but if I end up buying a new barrel I'd prefer to buy once and cry once vs. throwing hundreds or thousands of dollars into bullets and powder trying to find something that works.
I'd be fine with some of those numbers except those numbers aren't nodes, their upper limits. There is probably an accuracy node I could find, but only by going even slower. I've tried 3 different BCG's, two different lowers (one rifle buffer one H3 carbine buffer).
AR Comp gives me single digit ES and SD's for 5-shot groups with excellent accuracy. I'm not looking for a hot rod load, but don't think I should have to settle for 2200 fps out of a 20" barrel either.
I have two specific requests for input.
First, how fast can you push a 123gr bullet out of your 20" barrel before harming your brass? I'm trying to see if I have unrealistic expectations for my barrel and this input would go a long way to helping me understand that.
Second, if I have to get a new barrel to achieve my goals, what are my options? I really like a 20" barrel with a relatively heavy contour and I'd prefer it to be fluted. That's just my preference. I can't really find anything out there that has those specs. I don't want to say that money is no object, but if I end up buying a new barrel I'd prefer to buy once and cry once vs. throwing hundreds or thousands of dollars into bullets and powder trying to find something that works.