Handload for the BLR

[Mayor of Hobbs Knob]

   I'm looking to load some 165 gr. Nosler Partitions over 44 grs. of IMR 4895.  It should be a fairly warm load in my .308 BLR, but I don't anticipate any problem.  Any of you have a similar load? See any pressure trouble?  I'll run a couple over the chrony and see what they look like.  I'll be using them on moose, so want something pretty peppy.  I know,  most of you guys would prefer a cannon and a heavier bullet, but I expect to be able to call them in close and put the bullet where I want it.

   Thanks,

    Mayor

[pastorp]

Mayor, My nosler reloading manual shows 43 grains of 4895 as a max load with the 165 gr. bullet. Don't think going over sugested max loads is a good idea. IMO. Regards, Byron 

[Blackhawk44]

The pressure curve (not peak) of 4064, RL15 and Varget seem to suit my .308 better than 4895.  According to my chronograph, faster powders cause the lever to get a little sticky before full velocity is reached.  Slower powders get full speed and a smooth lever throw.  Since that discovery, I feed all my BLR's powders that are 'slow' for the caliber and life has been wonderful. BOL

[pastorp]

Mayor, Why so set on the 165 grain bullet in the 308. I used the 165 a lot when I lived in New Mexico for deer and antelope, but moved up to the 180's for Elk and larger game.
Even if your gun shoots the 165's better at 50-75 yards won't your gun shoot the 180's well enought.
The 165 sierra boatails I used would shoot through a mule deer broadside but only about 3/4 body length penetration on a frontal shot. They worked great for open country deer hunting.
In the timber I went to 180gr round nose remington core locks. They worked good on Elk if you avoided the shoulder shots.
While I've never used noslers myself several of my friends love them. I guess I could like everything about them but the price.  Byron

[Country Boy]

forget the 165's they are neither fish or fowel. I tryed them. Went bck to regular 150's and 180's. Yes I have a blr in 308. Use 748 I also have one in .358 win. Use the .225 nosler or speer and shot any thing you want. I personally use .250 speers, Shot them yesterday getting ready for a bear hunt, One ragged hole at 100 yds. I've killed 26 bear with that rifle a few elk and two moose.