35 Grain Berger and RL-10X

[FireBallGuy]

Finally got a break from our sub -40 weather yesterday and went to the range. Assembled some loads using 10X and the 35 grain berger. Initial testing with this bullet had them seated WAY too deep in the case but they shot well anyway. This time they were out as far as my VSF will allow (2.345" COL) and WOW, was i impressed!! 6 groups 6 different powder charges and they averaged just under 3/4" for the lot! Small was just under 3/8" large was 1.2". I like what I am seeing but due to the lowish BC of this bullet, I can't see it having much practicle use for 500 yards shooting. Have some 40 grain moly coated ones waiting in the wings, curious to see how the VSF will like those.

[Critter]

I'm using 26.5gr 10X, the Federal 205M, and the Hornady 32 grain V max. I have had excellent (1/2 moa) with this bullet-Load combination. This load gave similar results in my M700 stainless, M700 Custom, and modified Ruger #1b. Can't say enough about the 205M and the 32 gr. Vmax.

I also tried the Berger 40 grain BT Varmint, which gave acceptable results, but not suffiently accurate for 300 yard squirrels. I have 200 Berger 35 grain FB Match Varmint bullets to try at some point in the future, but with respect to the top combination, if it ain't broke don't fix it.




Photo of self-absorbed squirrel wacker courtesy Rick From Oregon, Inventor of the BR-Pivot.

[FireBallGuy]

Nice pic rick! I kind of feel the same way out my VSF.....the gun loves 39 grain BK's to death and with either benchmark or 10X the gun shoots tiny groups but the inner tinkerer just can't resist trying other things. I have heard that smack factor of that 35 grain berger is rather awesome!