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\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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No Content Available

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\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

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BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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Elevate Your Adventure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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\n

Lastly,\u00a0StaBALL 6.5 stands out as a groundbreaking product, delivering the world\u2019s first temperature-insensitive BALL Powder, engineered for optimum performance with 6.5 Creedmoor, 6GT, and similar cartridges. With\u00a0StaBALL 6.5, you can achieve velocities 30-200 fps higher than other propellants in the same class, ensuring your shots land with unmatched precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Elevate Your Adventure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

StaBALL delivers exceptional consistency for high-BC, heavy-for-caliber bullets in popular cartridges such as the .223 Remington, .224 Valkyrie, and .308 Winchester.\u00a0You can eliminate\u00a0variability and\u00a0give yourself the precision and consistency to dial in your target every time. Always with the most consistent metering\u00a0in any environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly,\u00a0StaBALL 6.5 stands out as a groundbreaking product, delivering the world\u2019s first temperature-insensitive BALL Powder, engineered for optimum performance with 6.5 Creedmoor, 6GT, and similar cartridges. With\u00a0StaBALL 6.5, you can achieve velocities 30-200 fps higher than other propellants in the same class, ensuring your shots land with unmatched precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Elevate Your Adventure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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BROWSE BY BRAND

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

StaBALL delivers exceptional consistency for high-BC, heavy-for-caliber bullets in popular cartridges such as the .223 Remington, .224 Valkyrie, and .308 Winchester.\u00a0You can eliminate\u00a0variability and\u00a0give yourself the precision and consistency to dial in your target every time. Always with the most consistent metering\u00a0in any environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly,\u00a0StaBALL 6.5 stands out as a groundbreaking product, delivering the world\u2019s first temperature-insensitive BALL Powder, engineered for optimum performance with 6.5 Creedmoor, 6GT, and similar cartridges. With\u00a0StaBALL 6.5, you can achieve velocities 30-200 fps higher than other propellants in the same class, ensuring your shots land with unmatched precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Elevate Your Adventure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

StaBALL HD is the ideal choice for large-capacity magnum cartridges\u00a0appropriate for the burn rate,\u00a0such as the 6.5 PRC and 7mm Remington Mag. This slow-burning, double-base\u00a0powder optimizes loading density, providing improved velocity and lower standard deviations. Essential factors for achieving match-grade accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

StaBALL delivers exceptional consistency for high-BC, heavy-for-caliber bullets in popular cartridges such as the .223 Remington, .224 Valkyrie, and .308 Winchester.\u00a0You can eliminate\u00a0variability and\u00a0give yourself the precision and consistency to dial in your target every time. Always with the most consistent metering\u00a0in any environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly,\u00a0StaBALL 6.5 stands out as a groundbreaking product, delivering the world\u2019s first temperature-insensitive BALL Powder, engineered for optimum performance with 6.5 Creedmoor, 6GT, and similar cartridges. With\u00a0StaBALL 6.5, you can achieve velocities 30-200 fps higher than other propellants in the same class, ensuring your shots land with unmatched precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Elevate Your Adventure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

POPULAR

No Content Available

BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Winchester StaBALL Powders<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

StaBALL HD is the ideal choice for large-capacity magnum cartridges\u00a0appropriate for the burn rate,\u00a0such as the 6.5 PRC and 7mm Remington Mag. This slow-burning, double-base\u00a0powder optimizes loading density, providing improved velocity and lower standard deviations. Essential factors for achieving match-grade accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

StaBALL delivers exceptional consistency for high-BC, heavy-for-caliber bullets in popular cartridges such as the .223 Remington, .224 Valkyrie, and .308 Winchester.\u00a0You can eliminate\u00a0variability and\u00a0give yourself the precision and consistency to dial in your target every time. Always with the most consistent metering\u00a0in any environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly,\u00a0StaBALL 6.5 stands out as a groundbreaking product, delivering the world\u2019s first temperature-insensitive BALL Powder, engineered for optimum performance with 6.5 Creedmoor, 6GT, and similar cartridges. With\u00a0StaBALL 6.5, you can achieve velocities 30-200 fps higher than other propellants in the same class, ensuring your shots land with unmatched precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Elevate Your Adventure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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BROWSE BY BRAND

\n

Experience unmatched performance with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL powders, designed with progressive-friendly metering.\u00a0From\u00a0extreme heat\u00a0to\u00a0bitter cold,\u00a0the line of\u00a0double-base BALL Powders, with a wide burn-rate range\u00a0revolutionizes the ball powder<\/a> industry. This\u00a0ensures\u00a0stability, optimal loading density,\u00a0and reliability\u00a0in any conditions.\u00a0And with all\u00a0StaBALL products,\u00a0you can count on\u00a0the innovative copper fouling reducer\u00a0additives\u00a0for longer shooting sessions without the need for frequent bore cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Winchester StaBALL Powders<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

StaBALL HD is the ideal choice for large-capacity magnum cartridges\u00a0appropriate for the burn rate,\u00a0such as the 6.5 PRC and 7mm Remington Mag. This slow-burning, double-base\u00a0powder optimizes loading density, providing improved velocity and lower standard deviations. Essential factors for achieving match-grade accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

StaBALL delivers exceptional consistency for high-BC, heavy-for-caliber bullets in popular cartridges such as the .223 Remington, .224 Valkyrie, and .308 Winchester.\u00a0You can eliminate\u00a0variability and\u00a0give yourself the precision and consistency to dial in your target every time. Always with the most consistent metering\u00a0in any environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly,\u00a0StaBALL 6.5 stands out as a groundbreaking product, delivering the world\u2019s first temperature-insensitive BALL Powder, engineered for optimum performance with 6.5 Creedmoor, 6GT, and similar cartridges. With\u00a0StaBALL 6.5, you can achieve velocities 30-200 fps higher than other propellants in the same class, ensuring your shots land with unmatched precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Elevate Your Adventure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Elevate your shooting experience in any conditions with temperature-insensitive Winchester\u00a0StaBALL Powders \u2013 where the perfect balance of stability, precision, and speed come together to redefine performance standards, no matter the temperature. Trust the \u201cBest of the Best\u201d for your next adventure on the range or in the field and discover the difference for yourself. Full load data is available at hodgdonreloading.com<\/a> and to find out more about the StaBALL family visit hodgdon.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"WINCHESTER\u00a0StaBALL POWDERS: ELEVATE YOUR PRECISION","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"winchester-staball-powders","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-11-14 13:31:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-11-14 18:31:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=391949","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":382026,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2024-06-08 07:30:00","post_date_gmt":"2024-06-08 11:30:00","post_content":"\n

Thanks to years of Covid pandemonium, civil unrest, and war in Ukraine and Israel, the demand for ammunition became so great that the American handloading<\/a> community found itself in a situation most of us thought we would never be\u2026short on ammo. Like many hand loaders, when the craziness started and people were willing to pay $50 for a 50-round box of ordinary 115-grain 9mm Luger, I thought I was in the catbird seat handloading it for 10 cents a round. I was, until I used up my stock of components and discovered how much harder it was to replenish my supply of bullets, brass, powder and primers. Components that were available substantially increased in price. Today you can barely buy a primer for ten cents, and they have recently come down in price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project DIY Centerfire Primer Cup Maker<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In light of the component scarcity situation, I decided to explore the DIY handloader products offered by 22lrreloader.com<\/a> who, despite their name, actually make a lot of nifty tools for the cap & ball blackpowder shooter and centerfire ammo handloaders. I\u2019d used their #11 percussion cap maker and Prime-All priming compound successfully to make my own caps from soda cans and decided to try making my own centerfire primers using their $129 Centerfire Primer Cup Maker. While I was largely successful, I found the process of making my own boxer primers so tedious as to be impractical if I can buy new factory primers for under a quarter each. Your personal threshold may differ from mine depending on your manual dexterity and patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Making your own boxer primers with the 22lrreloader.com tools is always partly a salvage operation. Your first homemade primers should be made by collecting and disassembling spent factory primers. The firing pin dent is hammered flat with a punch and cleaned by agitation in a jar of acetone along with the tiny anvils. You\u2019ll notice, like I did, that different brands of primers have cups of varying thickness and anvils of different sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Pain is Real<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The real pain in the ass with recycling boxer primer cups is finding the anvil that best fits the cup\u2019s inside diameter (I.D.) and positioning it with tweezers so its minuscule legs rest evenly inside the cup\u2019s beveled inner edge. A drop of sealant\/activator provided with the Prime All kit glues the little anvil in place when it dries. Find a means to efficiently segregate your spent primers into matching cups and anvils and the work can be made more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the top of the primer cup is thinned on both sides as it\u2019s compressed between the firing pin and the anvil, I don\u2019t like to recycle them twice. I think that would invite a punctured primer. As such, I needed a source of fresh primer cups, and that\u2019s where the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker comes into play. Available for large and small cups, it\u2019s a cutting and forming die that lets you punch new primer cups from sheet metal. Factory large rifle primer cups are made of brass and seem to vary in thickness from 0.0115 to 0.0145-inch, with most being around 0.012-inch. Curiously, the punching die instructions specified galvanized steel roof flashing material 0.017-inch thick, 0.0055 to 0.0025 inches thicker than the soft brass factory primer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

More Challenges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Good luck finding galvanized steel 0.017-inch thick. Expect to take a micrometer with you to various home supply stores and measure for yourself. The good news is that if you do find suitable material, a little bit of metal makes a lot of primer cups. I could not find any material 0.017 inches thick. The closest I got was 0.019-inch thick flashing. It produced a bell-shaped cup, (rounded top and flared lower edge) between 0.134- and 0.136-inch tall with a slightly uneven mouth. Large rifle primers are from 0.127- to 0.129-inch tall, so these cups were too high for the primer pockets. I found I could form the cups by pressing them into a case primer pocket with an RCBS hand priming tool. After I de-primed my \u201cfinal forming case,\u201d the cup looked much better with a flat top and considerably straighter sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At that point, it was looking like a useful cup, but for the thickness of the sidewalls. The anvils, designed for primer cups made of thinner metal, refused to sit level and centered. Had I used the specified 0.0017-thick material, I doubt it would have improved the anvil seating. The solution was to bevel the ID of the cup like a factory primer. I made a tool to grip the primers without deforming them by filing a round slot in an old pair of side-cutters. I used an RCBS case beveling tool to cut a substantial bevel to the edge of the outside diameter. The big bevel gave the tiny legs of the anvils something to consistently locate against and was the last step in making a serviceable new primer cup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cautions Regarding Pressures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The instructions state these primer cups withstand loads up to 70-percent of the cartridge's maximum average pressure (MAP). However, I found no supporting test data included (If you don\u2019t know what that is, you need to do some reading on the subject of MAP). The instructions don\u2019t proscribe experimentation, but they do advise caution. I think the choice of thick steel may create more problems than it solves, especially in my case using 0.0019 instead of 0.0017 inch material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, steel doesn\u2019t flex as much as softer brass to fire-form and seal itself inside the primer pocket. If you find your rifle\u2019s firing pin is barely denting the primer cup, as I did with some of my rifles, softer brass may be the way to go. The upper half of most brass rifle cases measures less than 0.0017-inch thick. That makes me think handloaders should try primer cups made from 0.0016-inch sheets of formable cartridge brass (260 alloy), available from McMaster Carr<\/a>. For $6.27 plus shipping you can get a 2x12-inch sheet (part number 8859K711). The tolerance is +\/- 0.002-inch, meaning the material can range from 0.014- to 0.018-inch thick. That\u2019s thicker than a factory primer cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a final note, primers made with these home-punched and -formed cups serve proportionally to your manufacturing process discipline and consistency. The ability to make your own primer cups and primers is what I regard as an advanced handloading emergency expedient. I don\u2019t recommend it if you have other options. There are lots of ways to mess up with home made primers. For example, don\u2019t\u2019 try to load them into the cartridge case using any kind of auto-feed mechanism! But for the price, I highly recommend every handloader invest in the Centerfire Primer Cup Maker tool and Prime All compound just in case. You can order them direct from manufacturer at 22lrreloader.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Project DIY Boxer Primers With a Centerfire Primer Cup Maker","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"centerfire-primer-cup-maker","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-13 16:26:53","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-13 20:26:53","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=382026","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":372998,"post_author":"929","post_date":"2024-03-24 12:37:41","post_date_gmt":"2024-03-24 16:37:41","post_content":"\n

As far as precision shooting is concerned, life is much easier when you marry your rifle to a single round. Nothing is worse than keeping two different dope books or trying to develop a feel for wind with two different loads, let alone source components to build both cartridges. It\u2019s a simple solution, just as long as you\u2019re ok with that rifle serving a solemn role. The problem with going this route is that you leave a lot of money on the table, as rifles that are well-suited for shooting matches are also typically excellent varmint guns. The projectiles involved in each sport are radically different from one another, as one is built for speed, and the other is made to buck the wind, typically through increased mass. Blending the two concepts, Hornady came out with the ELD-VT (eXtremely Low Drag \u2013 Varmint Target) product line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady ELD-VT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We got to test it out at last year's Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous<\/a>, sending some downrange via the new .22 ARC cartridge. I wanted in its use in some of the rounds that had been on the market for a little longer, so I started my investigation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I got home and had time to skim the entire line, I was able to dive a little deeper into this bullet family. Seeing some pulled from their cases helped a great deal, too. Their profiles mimic today\u2019s lowest drag pills, even to match or exceed the length of heavier offerings of the caliber. However, due to their thinner jacket, hollow cavity, and overall sleekness, they tip the scale at a much lower weight. For reference, the 62-grain .224-inch projectile is longer than the same diameter boattail hollow point pill despite being 13 grains lighter. Together, these qualities add up to faster speeds while beating the wind better on extended engagements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like everything else, anything great comes at the expense of something else. All of that length means they\u2019ll only reach full potential in modern cartridges that can accommodate the longer ogives, or at least magazines that allow for greater overall length. Think 6 Creedmoor instead of .243 Winchester or 22 ARC instead of .223 Remington. Now, I\u2019m not saying you can\u2019t load these into old standbys; I\u2019m just saying that a whole lot of bullets will be sitting outside of the case and might not fit into a mag. You might experience chambering issues, too, if your rifle doesn\u2019t have enough free bore, but in most cases, you can adjust around that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Using<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ELD-VT Terminal Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk terminal performance, as that\u2019s where a varmint bullet shines. Being that these feature the same Heat Shield tips as the rest of the ELD family, they\u2019ll arrive on target without suffering the deformation associated with other polymers when they heat up mid-flight. This also serves as part of the expansion recipe, as it gets driven into the hollow cavity upon impact. Being that the cavity is comprised of a thinner copper jacket than that of a match bullet, it fragments much easier and with less influence, making it explosive on thinner, softer targets. Lastly, the entire line falls into either the light or midweight caliber spectrum, giving the handloader the ability to drive them to incredible speeds, cranking the aforementioned qualities to an eleven.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always game for a reloading project, I was excited when the assignment came across my desk. With pills available for the most common calibers, I told Hornady to send me their first available, and I\u2019d cook something up. As I might have guessed, it was the 62-grain .224-inch, as they were churning these out to meet the .22 ARC demand that came with the introduction of the new product family. With a BC of .395, it\u2019s ballistically superior to all other 62- and 68-grain bullets Hornady makes while even giving some of the 73s and 75s a run for their money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only downside to receiving these was that I did not yet have a rifle chambered in .22 ARC, nor any other .224-inch hot rods on hand. I did, however, have a superbly accurate bull-barrel AR-15, so I decided to go 5.56 with this project. At the same time, I figured I\u2019d keep engineering honest and see if there was any feasible way to make these fit into a standard magazine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loading for 5.56 AR-15s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are several powders that work great with 5.56; it just comes down to what weight bullet you plan on running. That\u2019s where things get interesting, as the ELD-VTs are lightweight but fill the bore like they\u2019re much heavier. Therefore, I leaned toward my favorite powder for heavy .224-inch pills in 5.56, which is Hodgdon Varget. Although faster velocities are listed with other powders, I was confident that my 24-inch barrel would be an equalizer, and using Varget ensured temperature stability and time-tested consistency for me. I was able to find published load data for this propellant in both 62- and 75-grain loads, so that also helped me confirm that my choice would be safe. To ensure that I wouldn\u2019t experience an overpressure event, I selected the more conservative powder range and moved on to the rest of the components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years ago, I conducted most of my testing in an Air National Guard training range. Therefore, I have buckets of Lake City 5.56 brass on hand. With the quantity that I\u2019ve collected, I was able to sort it not only by head stamp but also within a grain of each other. To that end, these lots that I have are more consistent than anything you can buy off the shelf and, I admit perhaps a touch sentimental. With a full match prep in the rearview, all that was left was to prime them with benchrest-grade CCI BR-2 primers and head to my state-of-the-art research facility, which resembles a shed deep in the woods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Both<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Charging It Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Starting with a charge of 23.5 grains of Varget, I sat a bullet in small increments to see if I could squeeze it into a magazine. Using a Duramag afforded me a few extra thousandths, but even that was of no help. To get the round down to 2.260 inches, it would have to be sat below the Ogive, nearly falling into the case. The surface problem with this is obvious, as the rifle won\u2019t feed, and you\u2019ll have erratic or dangerous pressure levels. However, if that\u2019s not enough to sway you, remember that you\u2019ll lose a tremendous amount of powder capacity doing this. Lastly, seating below the shoulder\/neck junction introduces additional and variable neck tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, I tossed this round and created another at a more comfortable length of 2.480 and confirmed that it would chamber. After rolling off another four, I warmed the rifle up and punched my first group. I\u2019m not a lucky man, so when my first four shots measured less than half MOA, I was pretty excited. The fifth shot left the cluster but still yielded a 100-yard croup that measured .623-inch, letting me know that these were certainly going to be accurate. In most load development projects, I would have stopped right there. However, Hornady built these bullets for speed, and 2,700 feet per second isn't particularly fast for 5.56. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chronograph<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Need for Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To that end, I worked through the spectrum in half-grain increments and hit 2,928 fps at 25.0 grains, which is just about all the powder these cases can hold. The group measured .899-inch, beating the sub-MOA benchmark while exhibiting a standard deviation of just 3.7 and an extreme spread of 9. It\u2019s a good thing I took a screenshot of the chronograph; otherwise, people wouldn\u2019t believe it! Satisfied with both loads, I determined it best to call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady's ELD-VT met its promise and produced excellent accuracy and consistency, even in a cartridge built for something else. Although I still need to test it out on flesh, the borrowed V-Max technology proved itself over decades. So I believe it will become a grenade the minute it touches fur. Overall, I think this very well could be the only bullet you need to load in your precision rifles, so now it\u2019s just a matter of measuring more powder and stockpiling some ammo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hornady Click-Adjust Micrometer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the advantages that the handloader has is being able to tailor seating depth for top performance or even functionality. I used Hornady's new click-adjust bullet seating micrometer to develop the loads in this piece. It offers a tactile feel and a positive adjustment down to the thousandth. Upgrading your dies is as simple as twisting off the standard seater plug and replacing it with this tool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

V-Match Ammo Family <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Want to shoot the ELD-VTs but not into rolling your own rounds? No problem, Hornady offers them in their new V-Match line of ammunition. Initial loadings are in 6 or 22 ARC, 6 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and even 6.5 Grendel. Each cartridge utilizes match-grade brass and a carefully selected powder charge to drive each to peak velocity. Nothing is simpler than grabbing a case at a local gun store and hitting a prairie dog town running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, visit hornady.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n","post_title":"Hornady ELD-VT: A Blend of Match and Varmint Bullet Design","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-eld-vt-projectiles","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-01 12:50:09","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-01 16:50:09","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=372998","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":388049,"post_author":"1184","post_date":"2023-05-09 14:05:00","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-09 18:05:00","post_content":"\n

For over 80 years, RCBS has been a name synonymous with precision, reliability, and innovation in the world of reloading<\/a>. Founded with the core mission to support reloaders with the best equipment available, RCBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in handloading. Whether you are an experienced reloader looking to expand your cartridge selection or someone seeking to increase your handloading speed and efficiency, RCBS is here to meet your needs with an extensive range of high-quality products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RCBS Reloading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

RCBS offers a broad selection of products that are meticulously designed to ensure accuracy, consistency, and durability. From their presses to powder dispensers, dies, and case preparation tools, every item is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that has defined RCBS for decades. Their reloading presses, whether single-stage or progressive, are built to handle the demands of both beginners and seasoned professionals. The brand\u2019s advanced powder dispensers ensure precise measurement, helping you maintain consistent loads and optimal performance in your shooting. Meanwhile, RCBS dies are engineered to exacting specifications, ensuring reliable performance and a perfect fit for a wide variety of calibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Top-Tier Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At RCBS, customer satisfaction and product quality are paramount. This dedication is reflected in their continuous innovations, designed to streamline the reloading process and improve overall efficiency. By investing in RCBS products, reloaders not only gain access to top tier equipment but also become part of a long standing tradition of excellence and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether you're restocking your bench or upgrading your reloading setup, RCBS is fully stocked and ready to meet your demands. Visit RCBS today to explore their range of presses, powder dispensers, dies, tools and more \u2013 all available to help you take your handloading to the next level. Check out all the possibilities and the freshly reloaded inventory at rcbs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"RCBS RELOADING: HIGH-QUALITY SUPPLIES YOU'RE LOOKING FOR","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"rcbs-reloading-equipment","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-24 14:21:49","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-24 18:21:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=388049","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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  • Easy to clean<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","post_title":"Reloading Gear: Hornady Digital Cases & Parts Dryer Saves Time!","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-digital-cases-amp-parts-dryer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-21 11:19:10","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-21 15:19:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=387889","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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  • Choose from seven temperature levels for quick or gentle drying<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Easy to clean<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","post_title":"Reloading Gear: Hornady Digital Cases & Parts Dryer Saves Time!","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-digital-cases-amp-parts-dryer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-21 11:19:10","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-21 15:19:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=387889","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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  • Digitally adjust drying time from 15 minutes to two hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Choose from seven temperature levels for quick or gentle drying<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Easy to clean<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","post_title":"Reloading Gear: Hornady Digital Cases & Parts Dryer Saves Time!","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-digital-cases-amp-parts-dryer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-21 11:19:10","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-21 15:19:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=387889","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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  • Four fixed trays for cases and small parts and a fifth adjustable tray for larger gun parts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Digitally adjust drying time from 15 minutes to two hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Choose from seven temperature levels for quick or gentle drying<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Easy to clean<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","post_title":"Reloading Gear: Hornady Digital Cases & Parts Dryer Saves Time!","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-digital-cases-amp-parts-dryer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-21 11:19:10","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-21 15:19:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=387889","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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  • Dry large quantities of cartridge cases and gun parts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Four fixed trays for cases and small parts and a fifth adjustable tray for larger gun parts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Digitally adjust drying time from 15 minutes to two hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Choose from seven temperature levels for quick or gentle drying<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Easy to clean<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","post_title":"Reloading Gear: Hornady Digital Cases & Parts Dryer Saves Time!","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"hornady-digital-cases-amp-parts-dryer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-09-21 11:19:10","post_modified_gmt":"2024-09-21 15:19:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/?p=387889","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};

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