.300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

Rprecision

Rprecision

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Nov 9, 2011
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Progressive Hell, CO
#1
I am a fairly experienced hand loader, been doing it with great success and safety for the better part of 12 years. .223, 22-250. .308, and very little in 7mm Mag, .338 Mag.

I am starting out with a new gun, new cartridge and new class of cartridge. I just picked up a .300 Win Mag 700 Sendero II. 1/10 twist @ 26”

I have done some searches and spent the last few days reading on here, in a few books and online resources.

I am trying to build a very accurate load to punch paper and ring steel out to effective range of the caliber. I call that 1000-1300 yards.

I fully realize that my rifle may prefer a particular charge weight and COL that can’t be suggested. However, what I am looking for is a good place to start. Powder and bullets?

I want a powder that is not temperature sensitive.

I want a bullet that gets me a good muzzle velocity(2900-3000+), accuracy and of course high BC

I have been leaning towards Hogdon H1000 with a 190-grain sierra match king on top. Hopefully reaching a sub MOA load at a muzzle velocity of 3000 fps.

I have also been considering Rutumbo and the 208 Grain Hornady A-max (Wicked B.C.)

Although, based on what balistics I can find, the 190 shoots flatter to 1000 with better in the 0-500 range.

Am I on the right track or do I need to look at something else?

Thanks Charles

BTW this is a great forum
 
#3
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

208 Amax with H1000 seems to be the combination of choice. I use VV N165 with the 208's in mine and not noticed any temp variations (although its fair to say we don't get as big a swing in temperature here in the UK).
 
#4
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I know it isn't temp stable, but Rl-22 shoot so dam well in every 300 I have ever shot I can't help but use it. Not only is it accurate, but its fast!

H-4831 should be added to H-1000. I have a bazillion pounds of Retumbo, but because of the previously mentioned Rl-22 issue I have never bothered.

Peace!
 
#6
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I'm in the same boat as you. New build on the way. The 208s were suggested to me by a number of people yesterday. I had intended to start in the 180s and 190s (and will), but will probably give the 208s a go as well. As for powder, I've seen IMR 4831 referenced in a few manuals I've looked at. Both that and RL-22 seem to be consistently recommended as 'hunting' or 'accuracy' loads. That said, it is just a piece of paper and things have to be proven out.

I currently use IMR 4831 to load a .25-06 and .280, so I'm going to see what I can get out of it in the .300 WM. Would be nice to be able to use the same powder for all.
 
#7
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I ran into pressure with IMR4831 before I got the velocity I was looking for. And that was with a 22" barrel. H1000 gives me very good velocity, is temp stable, and leaves virtually no carbon fouling. RL22 was just as accurate, if not better, but dirty. In a longer barrel, it (H1000) should be far even better.

The 208's will kick the snot out of 190's in the wind at 1300 yds. Almost a full mil flatter and .6 mil windage. Do yourself a favor and at least start with the 208/210's, whichever are more accurate in your rifle. In addition, if you find yourself with room to stretch your legs, the 208's will keep going WAAAY past subsonic to ranges 190's don't even fantasize about.

Although the heavier bullets (215, 225, 230) offer magical BC's, they won't be better than the 208/210's under a mile because you can't drive them hard enough.

John
 
#9
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rprecision</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What is a reasonable Muzzle velocity expectation out of the 208 ? </div></div>

I just helped a friend develop a load for his 26" WM and he's running a solid 2950 with no pressure signs (and we shot at Deep Creek in 90+ deg. heat). From what I've read, this is not unusual.

John
 
#10
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rprecision</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Great suggestions, Thank you !

What is a reasonable Muzzle velocity expectation out of the 208 ?

I am starting to lean more towards giving them a try </div></div>

Good choice, they are by far one of the best choices for the 300WM. I'm getting 2850 fps out of my 24" R7000 using 73.5gr N165.
 
#11
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I ran into pressure with IMR4831 before I got the velocity I was looking for.</div></div>

For clarificatoin, what was the velocity you were shooting for and with what bullet? Thanks,
 
#12
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bhanDallas</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I ran into pressure with IMR4831 before I got the velocity I was looking for.</div></div>

For clarificatoin, what was the velocity you were shooting for and with what bullet? Thanks, </div></div>

200 AB's and 200 SMK's from a 26" barrel and we we're hoping for at least 2950, but we got pressure well before that. RL22 actually got us the velocity we we're looking for. This was a few years back and I've since moved over to H1000 and am very pleased with the results.

Every rifle is different, but in general, it's fairly well accepted that 4831 is a bit too fast for 200 and up bullets. Driven hard, anyway.

John
 
#13
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I'm new around here, and one thing I have noticed is the focus on temperature sensitive powders. I'm a one load, one gun sort of guy and when I find it, I stay with it.

For me, the second powder I ever tried, in 300 Winchester was H4831. No need to look any further. And, this load has served me well, wolf hunting in Canada, plains game in Africa and mule deer in Colorado, to name a few.

I use a number of powders and my only concern is accuracy. As a guess, I probably have way more than twenty pounds on the shelf at any given time? I have no interest in gongs, not much on plinking. I am a hunter. Different strokes.

In any event, I have never felt that something bad happened due to my powder being too temperature sensitive. There are a number of considerations that go into load selection and the goal is usually a performance issue like accuracy or velocity.

Okay, I will duck and run. BB
smile.gif


a little off topic, but there is some talk of R22. I have had three 25'06 Ackley's and used W760 and H4831 in the first two. In the third edition, I started with previously proven loads and then tried R22. I was seeing a 200fps increase and very acceptable accuracy. Temperature sensitivity never became an issue, and I have killed a lot of coyotes at night, in bitter cold with this rifle.
 
#14
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BuzzBoss915</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
For me, the second powder I ever tried, in 300 Winchester was H4831. No need to look any further. And, this load has served me well, wolf hunting in Canada, plains game in Africa and mule deer in Colorado, to name a few.
</div></div>

H4831 is a Hodgdon Extreme Powder just like H1000 - designed to be less temp sensitive. Maybe that's why you've had good success?

You have a good point though. I will always look for the most accurate load first and if that's a temp unstable powder (for example RE17 out of my .243) then I'll try and live with it.
 
#15
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

Like others have pointed out already. Go straight for a 208-210 with H-1000. I have been loading almost exclusivly for my 300WM for over 10 yrs. Started with 220's when they were the best thing out there, then the 210 VLD, next the 208 A Max, & now love the Hornady 225 HPBT. I have tried H4831. Good accuracy, but slow. Retumbo. Good velocity, & accuracy, but was temp sensitive, & dirty. H-1000 is my go to powder now.
My 208-210 load in a 26" was easily getting 2950. My new 28" gives 2860 with the 225's. All with H-1000.
 
#16
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I think there was a time, when I was doing load evaluation when H1000 was not available or they had discontinued it, for some reason? Not sure, but I have a vague recollection.

BTW, I only use 180 grain Hornadys. BB
 
#17
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

Whats an average velocity (high end) for the .208s? From what I'm reading here it seems like 2850 - 2950??

Anyone have a charge amount for H1000 that they could offer that would start me out in the lower end of that range?
 
#18
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

Start around 74grns and work up with the 208 AMAX and H1000. That velocity range is about average but it can be more or less depending on barrel and length.
 
#20
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

This has been very helpful thank you

I dont know why, but I was hoping for 3000 fps with some sort of magnum hard on! I guess it just sounds lame untill you look at the balistics....

Its not like a 208 grain slug with a BC of .648 @ even 2850 is something boring.......

Hell if it works out to 2950 thats something to behold
 
#22
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

Yes. I have done both Retumbo, & H-1000 with both 208's, & now the 225's. Had good results with both powders, however Retumbo wasn't as temp stable as H-1000, & was dirtier. The accuracy was the same with both powders, as the bullets liked the same MV for accuracy. 2950 for the 208's. & 2860 for the 225's. So the extra potential of the Retumbo sounds great, but in practice it doesn't work that way. The accurate velocity is what the brl/bullets want. Not what the powder is capable of producing.
 
#23
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rprecision</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Its not like a 208 grain slug with a BC of .648 @ even 2850 is something boring.......</div></div>

My Federal/Nosler load runs 2875 from my 22" WM. When you stop looking at paper and actually get out and shoot these things, they are QUITE impressive. We put up a friends non-AR500 plate at 800 yds. (thinking it was a safe distance). With my buddy spotting, after three 208's downrange, he paused and said, "I think I see daylight through my plate!". I've shot that same load with good accuracy well over 2000 yards.

2850 with 208's will be just fine.
wink.gif
2950 is awesome.

Now run the new Berger 230 Target Hybrid (G7 .380) @ 3100 fps. I want a 300 Hulk.
grin.gif


John
 
#24
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I have a .300 win mag 700 police which is basically a Scedaro. Everyone is telling you h1000, but no one had mentioned reloader22. I know the "experts" are going to go crazy bc of temperature effects on the powder, but I will tell you this I shoot 72.7 r22, wlrm primers, 210 Berger vlds, Remington brass fl resized and trimmed to 2.610" w/ a coal of 3.602", and buddy they are bad! I got it running 2915 fps at the muzzle. I did a bullet drop test and actually have a bc of .648, .17 higher than stated on box. Yesterday I shot a doe at 545 yards and she was dead before she hit the ground. Sounded like a boat paddle whacking her. Anyways, enjoy your new gun and I hope this helps. Happy Holidays
 
#25
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I have a 300WM built on a surgeon XL, using CIP mags. I had the chamber throated to seat 208's at 3.600(20thousands off the lands). I CAREFULLY worked up to 81g of H1000, with no pressure signs. 26in bbl, 208 AMAX. Chrono's at 3000fps. What is not too like?
 
#26
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I may have to give h1000 another go, Its just that I found an awesome load for this particular rifle with r22. Financially, reloading will drain you... Just read my quote. I have spent thousands, finally wised up found the round & stuck with it. I meant nothing against h1000. Hear great things about it.
 
#27
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

RL22 is a good powder. I used to use alot of it. It will give good velocity but it is a little dirtier and temp sensitive than H1000.
 
#28
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rprecision</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Its not like a 208 grain slug with a BC of .648 @ even 2850 is something boring.......</div></div>

My Federal/Nosler load runs 2875 from my 22" WM. When you stop looking at paper and actually get out and shoot these things, they are QUITE impressive. We put up a friends non-AR500 plate at 800 yds. (thinking it was a safe distance). With my buddy spotting, after three 208's downrange, he paused and said, "I think I see daylight through my plate!". I've shot that same load with good accuracy well over 2000 yards.

2850 with 208's will be just fine.
wink.gif
2950 is awesome.

Now run the new Berger 230 Target Hybrid (G7 .380) @ 3100 fps. I want a 300 Hulk.
grin.gif


John</div></div>

Nice !

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Aimsmall55</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a .300 win mag 700 police which is basically a Scedaro. Everyone is telling you h1000, but no one had mentioned reloader22. I know the "experts" are going to go crazy bc of temperature effects on the powder, but I will tell you this I shoot 72.7 r22, wlrm primers, 210 Berger vlds, Remington brass fl resized and trimmed to 2.610" w/ a coal of 3.602", and buddy they are bad! I got it running 2915 fps at the muzzle. I did a bullet drop test and actually have a bc of .648, .17 higher than stated on box. Yesterday I shot a doe at 545 yards and she was dead before she hit the ground. Sounded like a boat paddle whacking her. Anyways, enjoy your new gun and I hope this helps. Happy Holidays</div></div>

I really like the specs on R22, but I have to be honest temp stable powders are important to me. In a years time I can see anything from -30 hunting to 105 in the summer target shooting. We can have some huge swings depending on where I am at in CO.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Aimsmall55</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I may have to give h1000 another go, Its just that I found an awesome load for this particular rifle with r22. Financially, reloading will drain you... Just read my quote. I have spent thousands, finally wised up found the round & stuck with it. I meant nothing against h1000. Hear great things about it. </div></div>

You are spot on! What I really hate is ending up with all this spare bullets, powder, etc. that suck and will never get shot. I end up having to load up something I dont like just to put it in the End of the world box.........arrrgg

Thank for all the suggestions, I think I will start off with H1000 and 208's might play with some Match kings too. Never had one that didnt work pretty damm well

I guess on the brighter side, if I hate H1000 at least a pound goes fast.....eeek
 
#30
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Try RE22. If that doesn't work, get your chamber headspaced at the shoulder and try again. </div></div>

Ok you lost me?

Are you talking about sizing the cases to fit the chamber (Set dies correctly)vs not sizing off the belt
 
#32
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

I was talking about re-cutting the chamber to headspace off the shoulder instead of factory guns which headspace off the belt. It's the key to an accurate .300WM (not always, but often).
 
#34
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

Can't you more or less control the headspace that with the reloading die?
2nd firing and I suppose you loose that perfect chamber fit, but the same is true for a non belted cases isn't it?

I have had 338 Rum/Edge/Lapua chambers cut for a crush fit and while they shot well I am not sure they shot any better.
It did make for a critical setup though...So much so that I had to put a couple thou of headspace back in with the size die so it would operate with wet and dusty cases.

Just curious as to your take?

Peace
 
#35
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steeldinger</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a 300WM built on a surgeon XL, using CIP mags. I had the chamber throated to seat 208's at 3.600(20thousands off the lands). I CAREFULLY worked up to 81g of H1000, with no pressure signs. 26in bbl, 208 AMAX. Chrono's at 3000fps. What is not too like? </div></div>

WOW!!!

I'm at 2925fps with stock 700P, WW brass, CCI 250, 208AMAX, H100 78.6, .030" off the lands - .5MOA or so. It is a HOT load.
 
#37
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: colt933</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steeldinger</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a 300WM built on a surgeon XL, using CIP mags. I had the chamber throated to seat 208's at 3.600(20thousands off the lands). I CAREFULLY worked up to 81g of H1000, with no pressure signs. 26in bbl, 208 AMAX. Chrono's at 3000fps. What is not too like? </div></div>

WOW!!!

I'm at 2925fps with stock 700P, WW brass, CCI 250, 208AMAX, H100 78.6, .030" off the lands - .5MOA or so. It is a HOT load.</div></div>

I'm at 76.8gr of H1000 w/ the 208 amax and I thought that was pretty stout. Shoot really well in my 26" Lilja.
 
#38
Re: .300 Win Mag.......where to start ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slm9s</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: colt933</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steeldinger</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a 300WM built on a surgeon XL, using CIP mags. I had the chamber throated to seat 208's at 3.600(20thousands off the lands). I CAREFULLY worked up to 81g of H1000, with no pressure signs. 26in bbl, 208 AMAX. Chrono's at 3000fps. What is not too like? </div></div>

WOW!!!

I'm at 2925fps with stock 700P, WW brass, CCI 250, 208AMAX, H100 78.6, .030" off the lands - .5MOA or so. It is a HOT load.</div></div>

I'm at 76.8gr of H1000 w/ the 208 amax and I thought that was pretty stout. Shoot really well in my 26" Lilja. </div></div>

Velocity?
 
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