Tikka 243 reloading

[juliang]

I now have 3 loads which I know work really well. Loads of internet BS on loads/grouping so I used Doc as my witness ;D
All 3 loads gave less than .4" groups @ 100 yards. Primers were all Rem 9.5 large rifle, brass is Federal.

55gr NBT, OAL 2.69" 44.2gr Varget. Group .334"
60gr Sierra #1500, OAL 2.64", 42.4gr Varget, .399"
85gr Sierra #1530, OAL 2.66, 43gr AA4350, .38"

I belive that the 60gr can be improved with a little more powder and longer OAL, as 55gr NBT.
First photo is 85gr loads, second is 60gr Sierra.

[DocHolladay]

I witnessed it. I even took a few shots after he was done testing. Shoots great.

[bigblue]

Good shooting and loading. I was wondering if you had tried Varget with the 85gr. Sierra HPBT bullets?
I hope your giving Doc reloading lessons while he's there. I've been trying to get him into it for a while now. Maybe if he learns how to roll his own ammo he won't be so hesitant to shoot on your next hog hunt. LOL
Don

[juliang]

Don, I am really pushing Doc. I told him to buy bullets and dies and I'd supply the rest. I have tried Varget with the 85gr, it just seems a little inconsistent so far.