CFE223 + 120 Nosler

[RakkasanDad]

Does anyone have any load data on 120gr Nosler BT's with CFE 223? I have 3 boxes of the Noslers and just wondering what the best powder for them is.

[explorecaves]

From Vol II of the reloading handbook (pick them up if you haven't already - ar15buildbox.com):
Win SR, 31.0 gr Max, 2478 fps

[RakkasanDad]

Thanks I will do that.

[LRRPF52]

Start with 29.0gr, and work up in .3gr increments. Everyone should know not to just start with a maximum load.

Find your allowable seating depth and work it out with your magazine. With the 120gr NBT, that shouldn't take you over mag length anyway.

[RakkasanDad]

Thanks, that's where I will start.

[frittsk]

I was unable to make the Nosler 120 gr BT work in my rifle. At 2.28 OAL (the max my mag would take) I was still over .030" from the lands. I switched to the 120gr A-MAX and am within .010" at 2.25 OAL.

[LRRPF52]

Nothing wrong with .030" from the lands. How did they shoot?

Another thing about Nosler BT's is that many people experience copper fouling with them that needs to be removed before shooting another type of bullet. Many of the most accurate loads have been reported as 120gr NBT's.

[Dogue]

I was unable to make the Nosler 120 gr BT work in my rifle. At 2.28 OAL (the max my mag would take) I was still over .030" from the lands. I switched to the 120gr A-MAX and am within .010" at 2.25 OAL.

That's a long leade, whose barrel? Most won't even load the 120 AMAX for the Grendel because it has to be loaded very short. I know in my AA barrel the 120 NBT touches at 2.52 and is a great shooting bullet in my gun, and many other Grendels do well with it.

[BjornF16]

He has an SSK...they said it was SAAMI spec but seems to have a longer throat

[frittsk]

Yes, it is an SSK and the A-MAXs group much better than the Noslers.