Help with load data for the 55 Berger .204

[jam1e]

Hi folks,
I generally use 32's and 40's in my .204. But I've just got hold of some Berger 50's and 55's, and wanted to give them a go.
My problem is finding any load data. I've found some for the 50 Berger's, but nothing for the 55's.
Can anyone help with some data? I have IMR8208XBR, Hodgdon's BLC2, Viht N133, and Viht N135.
Thanks.
Jamie

[Rick in Oregon]

Jamie, unless you have a fast twist barrel, your factory barrel is most likely a 12 twist and will not stabilize a 50gr bullet. Bullets in that range will require something like a 9 twist, and then your velocity will be then be something like a 223. There are much better cases for .20 cal heavy bullets than the 204R.

Save that valuable powder for the bullets you've been shooting.

[jam1e]

Jamie, unless you have a fast twist barrel, your factory barrel is most likely a 12 twist and will not stabilize a 50gr bullet. Bullets in that range will require something like a 9 twist, and then your velocity will be then be something like a 223. There are much better cases for .20 cal heavy bullets than the 204R.

Save that valuable powder for the bullets you've been shooting.

Thanks for the reply Rick.
I bought my rifle as a 1 in 9, but have only ever used 32 and 40 grain VMax, which work great.
I do have a .223, but I don't want my .204 to replace it. The 50's and 55's, are more of an experiment than a long term plan. I only have around 50 bullets of each, and just wanted to try something different.
Cheers.
Jamie

[Silverfox]

jam1e--the .204 Load Data link at the top of this Website lists loads for the 50 gr. Berger HPBT bullets for Hodgdon powders and for IMR powders.

http://www.rugerhunting.com/204_data.php

[Tokimini]

I'm in the process of working up loads for the 55s also. I emailed Berger asking for some load data and here is what they sent me. I'm getting my most accurate rounds with a COAL of 2.480".