Stick or Ball Powder-? Question

[Tactical30]

I have recently got into reloading and I reload mainly for AR in .223 and 6.5 Grendel platforms. I only Target, shoot from 50yrds to 600yrds.

I have read a couple places that ball powders such as BL-C(2) and H-335 for example are better to use in lighter bullets such as 50gr.-62gr and the stick powder like Varget and H4895 is best to use in heavier bullets like 63gr.-77gr.

Is this true?

What about primers. Is it better to run certain primers with certain powder according to burn rate and how hot the primer is? Remember im new at this reloading thing.

I have put together a bunch of batches of .223 ammo with all different types of primers and powder and have been getting together some good groups, better than I would with factory ammo. I have not got around to getting a Chronograph yet but that is in the very near future.
<span style="text-decoration: underline">I seem to get the best accuracy from:</span>
77gr. Sierra Matchking
24.0gr. Varget
Federal 205M Primer
OAL 2.255"
Out of a 18" WOA barrel


I am trying to learn everything I can know about accuracy for AR shooting. I have read many reloading books and I am just trying to look for any new tips or ideas.

Thanks

 

[polish handgunner]

Re: Stick or Ball Powder-? Question

My choice of powder is based upon how well it meters whether i am loading 223 on my Dillon 550B or Grendel on my Redding T-7 press

 

[Rhys]

Re: Stick or Ball Powder-? Question

I look at load density, how well it meters, and velocity consistency.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Stick or Ball Powder-? Question

Varget is no good for light bullets in .223 because you run out of case capacity before you hit the pressure limit. Even at 26.5-27 grains, however, velocity is still amazing.

Ball powders are common in .223 because loading it bulk on a progressive is easier with ball than stick powder. For match ammo, however, stick powder is the only choice.

My rule is ball powder with FMJs, Varget for pretty much anything else.