Propellent Powders For the .204 Ruger


Q:I’ve been an avid reader of your technical articles for 30 years. Atpresent I am reloading the .22-250 with AR2208; the .25-06 and.30-06 with AR2208 and AR2209; the .222 Remington with BM2; and the.22 K-Hornet with AR2205 and WIN-296. All of my loads have beendeveloped from data in your reloading manuals of which I have severalincluding your latest 9th edition. I know I have the powders todevelop loads for the .204 Ruger. I intend to buy Nosler brass anduse only two bullets – the Hornady 40gn V- Max and Nosler BallisticTip. What do you consider to be the best overall powder for the .204Ruger?

DavePearce

A: In my own .204 Ruger, aRemington Model 700 action fitted with a Ruger SS barrel and Bell &Carlson stock, I have settled on just one load which is ballisticallymost efficient. That is the Hornady 40gn V-Max and 29gn of WIN-748for 3930fps. This is a good safe load in my gun. Increasing thecharge to 29-1/2gn boosts velocity to 4029fps, but is getting upthere with regard to pressure, although it is still useable. Maximumis 30gn of WIN-748 for 4105fps. The lighter load is easiest on thebarrel and cases. My “pet” load has produced 3-shot groupsas small as .120″ and .128″, but I believe that was astroke of luck. Most of the time it averages closer to .25″under field conditions, shooting from some improvised rest. Myexperience with the .204 Ruger tells me that WIN-748 is the bestpowder, not only for producing the highest velocity but also the bestaccuracy.

 

 

 

 


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Nick Harvey

The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.

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