The .260 Remington is a popular cartridge known for its accuracy and moderate recoil, making it a favorite for hunting and target shooting. H4350 is a widely used propellant known for its excellent performance in various cartridges, including the .260 Remington. This guide provides comprehensive load data for the .260 Remington using H4350 powder, emphasizing safety and accuracy. Always prioritize safety and consult your reloading manual before attempting any reloading.
Understanding the Components: .260 Remington and H4350
Before delving into specific load data, let's understand the key components:
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.260 Remington Cartridge: This cartridge boasts a balance of accuracy, velocity, and manageable recoil. Its 6.5mm diameter bullet makes it suitable for a variety of game animals, from varmints to larger deer.
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H4350 Powder: This extruded powder is known for its consistent burn rate and excellent performance in magnum rifle cartridges and other high-performance rounds. Its medium burn rate makes it well-suited for heavier bullets in the .260 Remington, yielding optimal accuracy and velocity.
Safety First: Reloading Precautions
Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous. Improper reloading practices can lead to serious injury or death. Always adhere to the following safety precautions:
- Consult your reloading manual: This is paramount. Your specific manual will contain data specific to your equipment and components. Never deviate significantly without expert guidance.
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection: These are essential to protect your eyes and hearing during the reloading process.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gunpowder fumes can be harmful.
- Never mix different powders: This can lead to unpredictable and dangerous results.
- Use a powder scale: Accurately measure your powder charge; even small variations can be dangerous.
- Double-check your measurements: Always double-check your powder charge, bullet seating depth, and overall cartridge length before loading into your firearm.
- Start low, go slow: Begin with minimum loads listed in your manual and gradually increase, carefully noting the results.
260 Remington Load Data with H4350: A Starting Point
The following data is provided for informational purposes only. These are starting loads, and you must adjust based on your specific rifle, components, and altitude. Consult your reloading manual for complete and accurate data. Always start at the minimum charge and gradually work up.
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Bullet Type | H4350 Powder Charge (grains) | OAL (inches) | Primer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 | Nosler Ballistic Tip | 42.0 - 44.0 | 2.700 - 2.750 | CCI BR-2 | Start Low, Go Slow |
| 120 | Sierra GameKing | 42.0 - 44.0 | 2.700 - 2.750 | Federal 210 | Start Low, Go Slow |
| 140 | Hornady ELD-X | 40.0 - 42.0 | 2.800 - 2.850 | Winchester WLR | Start Low, Go Slow |
| 140 | Nosler AccuBond | 40.0 - 42.0 | 2.800 - 2.850 | Remington 7 1/2 | Start Low, Go Slow |
OAL (Overall Cartridge Length): This refers to the total length of the loaded cartridge. It's crucial to measure your OAL accurately to avoid problems with feeding and chambering. Too long, and the bullet may strike the rifling. Too short, and you may encounter feeding issues.
Primer: The type of primer used can affect the performance of your load. Choose primers that are appropriate for your firearm and powder.
Factors Affecting Load Data
Several factors can influence the performance of your loads:
- Rifle: Different rifles may have different chamber dimensions and headspace, affecting how a particular load performs.
- Altitude: Higher altitudes require adjustments to load data.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect powder performance.
- Bullet: The specific bullet you choose (brand, construction, and design) will affect your ideal load.
- Powder: The batch-to-batch variation in powder is minimal, but always using the same lot number of powder is a best practice.
Always confirm with your reloading manual and/or a qualified expert for specific recommendations.
Case Studies & Examples (Illustrative, Not Definitive)
While providing specific case studies would require proprietary data and violate safety protocols, we can illustrate the process. Imagine testing a 140-grain bullet with H4350. You would start at the lowest charge listed, firing several shots and meticulously recording the velocity and accuracy. If results are satisfactory and consistent, you can increase the charge incrementally, always staying within the recommended range. If pressure signs appear (like flattened primers or excessive recoil), immediately cease and reduce the charge.
Conclusion: Responsible Reloading with H4350
Reloading your .260 Remington ammunition with H4350 powder offers the potential for superior accuracy and cost savings. However, it's imperative to approach reloading responsibly, prioritizing safety above all else. Always start with minimum loads, gradually work up, and meticulously document your results. Consulting a reputable reloading manual and seeking guidance from experienced reloaders is crucial for safe and successful reloading. Never compromise safety for expediency. Remember, responsible reloading is the key to a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.