The precision rifle cartridge that took the shooting world by storm. Exceptional ballistic coefficient bullets, moderate recoil, and outstanding accuracy. Dominates PRS and long-range competitions. Effective for big game hunting to 500+ yards. Available in affordable factory match ammo.

Best For

Long Range Shooting Competition Hunting

Ballistics (Typical Factory Load)

2,700

Muzzle Velocity

fps

2,263

Muzzle Energy

ft-lbs

140

Typical Bullet

grains

6.71

Bullet Diameter

mm

62,000

Max Pressure

PSI

48.77

Case Length

mm

🔧 Handloading Data

Reference load data for experienced reloaders. Always start at the start charge and work up. Consult official manuals before loading.

Bullet	Powder	Start	Max	Velocity	COAL	Source
120 gr (7.8 g) BT	Hodgdon H4350	40.0 gr 2.59 g	44.0 gr 2.85 g	3,000 fps	2.825	Hodgdon
120 gr (7.8 g) BT	Alliant Reloder 16	40.5 gr 2.62 g	44.0 gr 2.85 g	3,020 fps	2.825	Alliant
140 gr (9.1 g) ELD-M	Hodgdon H4350	38.5 gr 2.49 g	42.5 gr 2.75 g	2,700 fps	2.825	Hodgdon
140 gr (9.1 g) ELD-M	IMR 4451 Enduron	39.0 gr 2.53 g	42.5 gr 2.75 g	2,720 fps	2.825	IMR
140 gr (9.1 g) AMAX	Alliant Reloder 17	38.5 gr 2.49 g	42.0 gr 2.72 g	2,680 fps	2.825	Alliant
147 gr (9.5 g) ELD-M	Hodgdon H4350	37.5 gr 2.43 g	41.5 gr 2.69 g	2,650 fps	2.825	Hodgdon

📐 Measurement Guide for Reloaders

Powder Charge

Measured in grains (1 grain ≈ 0.065 grams) using precision digital or mechanical scales. Maintaining strict powder weight is crucial for safety and velocity consistency.

Cartridge Overall Length (COAL)

Total length from case base to bullet tip. Checked with digital calipers. Must be within manufacturer's specified range to fit and feed from your firearm's magazine.

Cartridge Base to Ogive (CBTO)

Precision shooters measure to the ogive — the curved part of the bullet that first contacts the rifling — for more accurate bullet seating depth and consistency.

Case Length & Headspace

Brass stretches with firing. Measure case length to know when to trim. Use headspace comparators to check shoulder bump-back during sizing.

Neck Tension

The grip the brass has on the bullet. Measured with ball micrometers by comparing neck wall thickness before and after bullet seating.

Pressure Signs

Inspect fired brass for over-pressure: flattened primers, ejector marks, case head expansion. If unsure, reduce charge and consult your load manual.

⚠️ Always consult established reloading manuals (Hodgdon, Hornady, Lyman) for your specific bullet and powder combinations. For experienced reloaders only.