Handloading 444 Marlin

[gaileyr]

OK guys, here’s the deal. So far I love my new H&R in 444 Marlin. It’ll hold  ¾ to 1-inch (mostly 1 inch) groups at 50yds with factory Remington 140gr ammo. Problem is this ammo is running over $30 a box locally. Can’t afford to shoot it much at those prices. Decided to start reloading the 444 so I can get more practice/trigger time. What I would like to do is duplicate the Remington 140gr loading. I’d appreciate any advice you guys can give about how to accomplish this. Load data, etc, etc.
Currently I reload for my 6.5X55 Swed. Another rifle that requires expensive ammo.

[quickdtoo]

I used Hodgdon data for  H4198  240gr Sierra data with the 240gr XTP to shoot the groups at 100yds in the previously posted link below, Rem brass and 9½ primers, COL of 2.555" which is .014" off the lands in my rifle, crimped with a Lee factory crimp die. 

Tim

http://www.gboreloaded.com/forums/index.php/topic,124487.msg1098436387.html#msg1098436387

[krod47nw]

I don't have a handi 444 barrel, but I have a marlin 444.  It loves both H4198 and IMR4198.

Kevin

[handirandy]

44.4  grains IMR4198 with Hornady 240 gr. XTP.  Remington LR primers.  Also works well with Hornady 265 gr. and excellently with Speer 270 gr. Gold Dot.  Shoots around 2" @ 100.  Gold dot around 1.5"  Have taken many deer and a few 'yotes out to 175 yds with these load combo's.  As usual start 10% below and work up although these are not listed as max loads from Hornady Third Edition.   If you want some plinking loads try 6-8 grs of Unique with a 240 gr cast bullet of choice.   Much easier on shoulder, ears, and pocket book, but will have to adjust sights.  Can hunt with 12-13 grs. Unique and a 240 jacketed bullet of choice.  About same as a 44 Mag load.  Hope this helps.  Good huntin' and good shootin'.  You will enjoy your 444.

[gaileyr]

Thanks for the info "Handirandy".
BTW  Does anyone know what's the pressure rating on the H&R 444 "Handi-Rifle"? I think the Marlin 444 lever-action is around 44,000psi. Was just wondering if the H&R could stand up to something a bit hotter than factory loads? Also, what's the twist rate on 444 H&R barrel?

[quickdtoo]

Twist rates are all listed in the FAQs, current production .444 barrels are 1:20", old H&R .444 barrels were 1:38". The SB2 frame is the same as is used on the 270Win with the same size case head and a SAAMI MAP of 65kpsi, the .444 is rated at 44kcup.

Tim

http://www.frfrogspad.com/miscellk.htm