First time handloader: IMR 7838 powder is slightly compressed in 338 LM (250 gr berger)...is that normal

[harry_x1]

Need Advice as first time handloader.
I just loaded 50 rounds of 250 gr 338 LM berger bullets using lapua brass and IMR 7838 powder. At 83 grains my powder is coming slightly above the shoulder and into the neck, making it a compressed load.....is that normal in 338 LM catridge or I might be doing something wrong....thanks for your attention and advice.

 

[Kevins750]

I use H1000 so I can't comment on 7828. But hogdons online is my first source.
I am not a pro but I have been loading for about 5 years and just curious why
You loaded 50 rds. Usually I don't load 50 rds until i know it's an accurate load.
Is 83gr the starting load? Are you getting the powder packed in the case good.

 

[harry_x1]

Thanks for response Kevin. You are correct, I was being too dumb loading 50 rounds. Should have tested first. Was in a hurry to take rifle out to a 1 mile range in Kentucky where I was flying out for work. Tested the load today and it turns out that I am getting too much pressure. Round shot out at 3169 FPS from a 20 inch barrel...the bolt almost locked up and seems it has left a little imprint on the bolt face as well...not sure if the bolt will need replacement now or what. I am guessing that I am might have overlubricated the gun with oil getting into the action.... let me know if anyone has suggestions/ideas on how I can root cause this high pressure issue

 

[Kevins750]

As I stated earlier I load 90gr H1000 with 250gr lapua scenars in lapua brass in a savage 110 stealth. It is about
A mid load in the powder column but very accurate. I think it's around 2800fps, Coal is 3.700. I would try some
H1000 OR retumbo if you can. Maybe Google 7838 in 338 lapua with 250gr...

Looks like 83gr of 7828 is the starting load according to hogdons site. They state 2650fps
With 24"barrel and Norma brass.

You definitely have something strange going on. What are you measuring your charges with?

 

[harry_x1]

Hornady G2 1500 .... I have ordered a sartarious scale though... arrives Monday

 

[CanSniper]

338 Lm case will hold 95+ grns of powder. Something's not right. 7828 is not a bulky powder. I think you better check your scale.

 

[harry_x1]

guys...I was able to get hold of factory ammo and it is shooting pretty ok from my rifle...I have a new scale arriving tuesday and will weigh the powder charge in new scale to see if something went wrong with weighing...thanks again to everyone who responded.

 

[harry_x1]

A big thanks to all who helped me diagnose the issue... it was the scale.. I got a new sartorious scale and it seems I was loading too much powder.. with new scale the velocities are coming out great and very consistent ... thanks again !!!???