04/14/19 – Below are my results:
Rifle: AR-15 with a 16” FN barrel, 1/7 twist and a YHM Phantom QD suppressor.
Powder: Hodgdon BL-C(2)
Bullets: Hornady 75 gr BTHP (P/N 2279)
Primers: WSR
COL & Crimp: 2.250” with light taper crimp
Cases: Mixed FC brass trimmed to 1.750”
Conditions: Overcast, 73 deg F, small breeze
Load Data*
- Hodgdon: Start 23.0 gr (2646 fps) and Max 26.0 gr (2858 fps) – 24″ barrel, 1:12″ twist, WSR
- Hornady (9th Ed.): Service Rifle Data – Start 21.2 gr (2200 fps) and Max 25.2 gr (2700 fps) – 20” barrel, 1:9” twist, WSR
- Hornady (9th Ed.): NATO – Start 22.5 gr (2500 fps) and Max 26.0 gr (2850 fps) – 20” barrel, 1:7” twist, WSR
Note * – Always verify load data for yourself, starting low and working up in safe increments. Published data varies from source-to-source, and subject to typos and transposing errors. Additionally, internet posts such as this are someone’s personal experience.
Here were my results, 5 shots each at 50 yds:
BL-C(2) (23.0 gr) – Avg 2330, ES 29, SD 13, Grp 1.0”
BL-C(2) (23.5 gr) – Avg 2408, ES 43, SD 15, Grp 0.75”
BL-C(2) (24.0 gr) – Avg 2472, ES 56, SD 22, Grp 1.0”
BL-C(2) (24.5 gr) – Avg 2556, ES 49, SD 18, Grp 1.0”
A few observations:
- My best load (IMO) was 23.5 gr which produced a 0.75” group at 50 yds with an average speed of 2408. This is a nice velocity for this bullet from a 16” barrel with decent grouping considering I am not the best shot. I believe that this would equate to approximately 2680 fps from a 24” barrel.
- However, all three loads produced acceptable results, just judging the 50 yd results.
- I was adjusting my scope between load tests, which maybe I should not do during consecutive load testing.
- It is interesting that BL-C(2) and CFE223 are right next to each other on the burn rate chart, and as such my results using the same bullet with CFE223 produced similar speed and grouping.
See results from CFE223 powder: 23.5 gr – Avg 2429, ES-65, SD-27, Group 1.00”
See results from TAC powder: 24.1 gr – Avg 2643, ES 68, SD 22, Group 5/8” to 1”
DISCLAIMER
The load data contained above was developed using specific components. Other components may not produce equivalent pressure or velocities; therefore, it is recommended that the user be familiar with the basic rules of reloading safety. If you choose to use any load data above, you are using at your own risk.
Always verify load data for yourself, starting low and working up in safe increments. Published data varies from source-to-source, and subject to typos and transposing errors. Additionally, internet posts such as this are someone’s personal experience. My recommendation is that you should always consult at least three sources of manufacturer’s ammunition and/or powder reloading data before reloading your own ammunition.