Rediscovering SML
May 19, 2021 14:44:38 GMT -5
Post by ET on May 19, 2021 14:44:38 GMT -5
After being away numerous years, I have noticed some changes. One being the so-called addiction one experienced when one got into SML. At that time the ML-II was the main interest and getting it to shoot decent groups was a challenge and struggle. It was a time I would visit this board numerous times a day hoping to learn something new. The camaraderie and info sharing were what I consider at a high level that made it attractive and alluring. Now it’s more a desire than addiction.
Of course, with all advancements an evolution occurred called the .45 caliber appeared. Here you now have an SML that can shoot sabot or sabot-less with higher BC bullets. This made the .45 attractive and more exploration shifted to the .45. Also need to mention the .40 is now coming alive. I may not be shooting these calibers but enjoy reading about them.
Now like other 50cal shooters my SML is set for hunting out to 200yds. It shoots really good, kills deer humanely so, I see no need to move to another caliber. So, my remaining challenges is finding loads for lighter than 250gr bullets. Also, I haven’t fully given up trying to shoot 40cal bullets out of my 50. Until I have exhausted all avenues in this area I plan to keep trying.
My current problem is range closure because of this pandemic so, I’m anchored at the starting gate waiting for the dam to burst so, I can start surfing, chuckle.
Originally, I was hoping to develop a load that would generate 2800fps for a 250gr bullet. But as I approach that level of velocity the recoil is becoming unmanageable. By that I mean I can’t readily control my shot placement. To me that is unacceptable for hunting. 20yrs ago this would not be an issue but age takes its toll over time.
Currently I hope to continue monitoring powder burn response by altering ignition intensity. Some interesting results are developing. Here I hope to gain better powder burn efficiency per given load.
Hopefully I’ll find that a better burn efficiency will also help reduce a powder’s temp sensitivity somewhat. For me there is still so much more to learn even at this age. Hopefully the range will open soon and it’s Show Time.
Of course, with all advancements an evolution occurred called the .45 caliber appeared. Here you now have an SML that can shoot sabot or sabot-less with higher BC bullets. This made the .45 attractive and more exploration shifted to the .45. Also need to mention the .40 is now coming alive. I may not be shooting these calibers but enjoy reading about them.
Now like other 50cal shooters my SML is set for hunting out to 200yds. It shoots really good, kills deer humanely so, I see no need to move to another caliber. So, my remaining challenges is finding loads for lighter than 250gr bullets. Also, I haven’t fully given up trying to shoot 40cal bullets out of my 50. Until I have exhausted all avenues in this area I plan to keep trying.
My current problem is range closure because of this pandemic so, I’m anchored at the starting gate waiting for the dam to burst so, I can start surfing, chuckle.
Originally, I was hoping to develop a load that would generate 2800fps for a 250gr bullet. But as I approach that level of velocity the recoil is becoming unmanageable. By that I mean I can’t readily control my shot placement. To me that is unacceptable for hunting. 20yrs ago this would not be an issue but age takes its toll over time.
Currently I hope to continue monitoring powder burn response by altering ignition intensity. Some interesting results are developing. Here I hope to gain better powder burn efficiency per given load.
Hopefully I’ll find that a better burn efficiency will also help reduce a powder’s temp sensitivity somewhat. For me there is still so much more to learn even at this age. Hopefully the range will open soon and it’s Show Time.
