Advice for working up a load

[rangeball]

Many of you have gone through the trial and error process to get where you are today. I have a bunch of bullets and sabots on their way to me now, as well as some N110 and will soon be following you down the path.

With so many load combos available, even within the same sabot/bullet with a given powder just because of it's range (ie, 40-46 gr N110) I was hoping for me and posterity perhaps you could recommend how best to set up and proceed with establishing a base load.

For instance, I plan to start with 42 grains of N110 with all bullet and sabot combos (250-300 gr). However, aren't the solid copper barnes likely to shoot better at the upper end of the powder range due to higher velocity/pressure causing better obturation? I'd hate to eliminate say the TEZ because it didn't shoot as well at 42 grains. Perhaps I should start with stouter loads with the barnes?

Any input will be greatly appreciated so I can work smart and not hard

[onecardchuck]

rangeball,

I think you may have answered your own question. I would start with 42 grains and work up for all except the barnes all copper. I would probably do the opposite with the barnes and start at the top and work my way down. The first bullet you should shoot should be a 250 grain one that you plan on working your way up from 42 grains of powder. Do this for two reasons 1) It is always safer with a new gun to work your way up and see if anything goes awry. 2) You can get a feel for starting point for the barnes after you reach the top end load for recoil like or dislike, and how your setup handles the more stout loads.

[wilmsmeyer]

Do not be dissappointed if N110 blows sabots at the mid upper range of its' intended use. Instead, switch to a slower powder in a higher dose or explore a duplex.

N110 is a "right-now" powder. Quick pressure. Some guns love it. Mine hates it. N110 may be your ticket or a complete nightmare as you push it past a good spot. IMO, 1 grain too much means a lot with N110. For book speeds it's probably going to work. If you need more then 2350-2400...try N120 or H4198 in the mid 60's - mid 70's respectively. A little more kick and a little more speed and much more sabot forgiveness.

[rangeball]

Thanks guys.

wilmsmeyer, I'm not looking for speeds past what book loads bring with 250 or 300 grain bullets. Perhaps the quick burst with N110 will be just what is needed for the copper barnes bullets. I think in the 250 gr they are where it's at for what I like terminally.

I will be watching for blown sabots for sure. Thanks for the reminder.