by Jorlcrin » 03 Dec 2023, 9:42 am
My Tikka CTR runs a 20" barrel with a 1:8" twist, which Tikka describes as 'Semi-Heavy', which is rather vague.
Up until June, I'd been simply running factory 55gn rounds through it(either ADI green-tip sierra, or the 55gn SP Sierra Gamekings).
But I was finding the 55gn pills were just a bit under-gunned for pigs.
For the past 6 months, I've been getting a lot of success with 75gn BTHP Match Hornadys, and now 75gn REXEM F-Bomb BTHP pills.
I havent sighted it in proper from a bench-rest, but a very brief session at 100 metres from the door of my Landcruiser, showed me I was punching holes into the target slightly under an inch.
[Probably less than that, but I didnt have time to get more precise.]
My overseer is running a Howa 1500 with a 22" 1:9"twist barrel(sporter), and he's getting excellent results with (initially) 68gn Hornady BTHP match pills, and now 69gn REXEM F-Bomb BTHP pills.
While neither of us are punching paper, so not tweaking the very best from either rifle, both of us really happy that the rounds are landing exactly where we intended.
I doubt I'll be messing around with my loads any time soon, but again; not punching paper.
The 68/69gn pills are in front of 24.5gns of AR2208.
The 75gn pills are in front of 24.0gns AR2208.
COAL is 2.265"
Currently using CCI SRP 400 primers.
Both loads are on the warm(ish) side, so approach these loads with caution.
[But I'm not seeing ANY pressure signs.]