6.5 Grendel Reload with 123gr A-Max, what powder to use

[waveslayer]

I recently purchased an AR platform 6.5 Grendel with a 24'' Shilen barrel. I would like to shoot 123gr A-Max bullet. I have some XBR powder on hand and Varget. I've heard that Varget is not ideal for an AR platform.

What is the best Powder to use for the Grendel using 123gr. A-Max?

I heard that the AA2520 is a great powder but is highly heat sensitive. I live in CA and shoot mostly in the desert, so the heat sensitivity makes me a bit nervous. But I am open to any suggestions.

So What powder is best? 2520, XBR, BL(2)...?

Thanks in advance.

 

[BIPMaster]

The guys on the 6.5 Grendel forum damn near swear by IMR 8208XBR. It is also what I use, and it shows much promise.

 

[me124704]

You may want to give H322 a try. As one of Hodgdon's Extreme powders, it should be less temp sensitive.

 

[waveslayer]

Thanks so much. I will just try that and see what happens!

 

[jeff1383]

+1 for 8208. My sweet spot was 28.3 gr with a coal of 2.255 coal with the 123 amax in lapua brass.

 

[bobke]

Or CFE223. 31.7 w/CCI 41 at .010 off lands is good in 3 of mine. Back off a grain and work up. BLC2 and TAC are also good, as is RL15.

 

[lead ƒarmer]

I use XBR with good results in the Nosler BT and Amax