IMR4198 and 40 Nosler Ballistic Tips

[bmf1321]

Hi. I am new to the site and reloading and was wondering whata good starting point would be for IMR 4198 powder with 40 grain Ballistic Tips. Also, when developina load for the forst time, what increments do you typically increase the powder by? .5 grain? How high to go?

[greystone]

I looked at 4198 at one time too but couldn't find too much data on it except for lighter bullets than what you are suggesting. You might want to consider a different powder. Look around on this site and you will find powders that are used successfully. The 204 is a small case so for whatever powder you use keep the increment change in the .2-.3 grain range. Dave

[acloco]

Interesting. Hodgdon's data center only lists one load as well.

Probably produces high pressure in the 204 cartridge.

I would call them.

http://data.hodgdon.com/cartridge_load.asp

[Gube]

I have done some testing with H-4198 (similar to IMR-4198). I've only used it with the 26 gr varmint grenades. I would think 4198 burning rate is to quick for the 40 gr stuff and would / could create some high pressure spikes with the heavier bullets. There are much better powders to use for those heavier bullets. There is some info on this thread about it.
http://www.204ruger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=5260

[Steve V]

I had been wanting to try H4198 in my 204, mainly because it shoots so well in my 222. Finally got time and the weatheer cooperated this past weekend. I got some info from a shooter on Saubier.com about where to start with H4198 in the 204 and his info was right on. I was very happily surprised when my first 3 rounds made one raged hole with the 40 gr Ballistic Tips. I didn't get time to put them over the chronograph, yet but I do know that H4198 does work well in the 204. I was shooting my Ruger 77 V/T. Looking forward to seeing what the CZ will do with this load.

[bmf1321]

So, what grain powder worked for you? I've got the IMR 4198 for the 223 and fiured Id try it since I've got it. Thanks,

[Gube]

I had been wanting to try H4198 in my 204, mainly because it shoots so well in my 222. Finally got time and the weatheer cooperated this past weekend. I got some info from a shooter on Saubier.com about where to start with H4198 in the 204 and his info was right on. I was very happily surprised when my first 3 rounds made one raged hole with the 40 gr Ballistic Tips. I didn't get time to put them over the chronograph, yet but I do know that H4198 does work well in the 204. I was shooting my Ruger 77 V/T. Looking forward to seeing what the CZ will do with this load.

Which bullet and what range of powder weight did you use? I ended up with 23.3 gr for the varmint grenades. I am hoping to put them through the chrony tomorrow. My daughter and son are heading out to the prairie dog fields with me tomorrow afternoon.

[Steve V]

I'm shooting 40 gr Ballistic tips, Winchester brass, 7 1/2 Rem br primers. 24.0 gr of H4198 cut the ragged hole. Went up to 24.2 and the group opened up just a bit; still a nice small group. As soon as I can get these loads over the chronograph, I'll post some muzzle velocities.