Understanding Reloader 15
Extruded Powder Characteristics
Reloader 15, manufactured by Alliant Powder, has earned a reputation as a versatile propellant, favored by both hunters and target shooters alike. This powder is categorized as an extruded powder, known for its cylindrical grain shape. Extruded powders often offer benefits like consistent metering, contributing to shot-to-shot uniformity, a critical factor in achieving accuracy.
Temperature Stability Advantage
A key advantage of Reloader 15 lies in its temperature stability. This means its burn rate and performance are less susceptible to fluctuations caused by changes in ambient temperature. For shooters who operate in varying environmental conditions, this is a significant advantage, minimizing the need to constantly adjust their loads.
Versatility in Rifle Cartridges
The versatility of Reloader 15 is noteworthy. It’s a solid choice for a variety of calibers, offering excellent performance in cartridges like the .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and even the .223 Remington. It’s particularly well-suited for medium-sized cases, where it can provide a balanced combination of velocity and accuracy.
Understanding Burn Rate
When considering Reloader 15, understanding its burn rate is helpful. While burn rates are relative, Reloader 15 sits in a range that’s often described as a medium-burn rate powder. This makes it appropriate for a range of bullet weights within the calibers it is designed for.
Safety Considerations
Always keep in mind the importance of safe handling practices. Powder should be stored in a cool, dry location, away from sources of ignition or heat. Always handle powder with care, and never mix different types.
Sourcing and Interpreting Load Information
Importance of Reliable Data
Accurate and reliable load data is the cornerstone of safe and effective reloading. Incorrect load data can lead to dangerous situations, including excessive pressure that can damage your firearm and potentially cause injury. Therefore, sourcing your information from trustworthy sources is paramount.
Essential Reloading Manuals
Reliable reloading manuals are indispensable. Publications from respected manufacturers such as Nosler, Sierra, Hodgdon, and Speer are widely considered to be essential. These manuals are the result of extensive testing, providing carefully calibrated data based on specific firearms, barrel lengths, and other factors.
Powder Manufacturer Websites
Powder manufacturers, including Alliant Powder, offer valuable load data resources on their websites. These sites often provide updated information, as well as load data tailored to specific bullet types and weights.
Online Reloading Communities
Online reloading forums and communities can be valuable sources of information, but it’s critical to approach this information with caution. Always verify the information you find with a trusted manual. Experiences shared by other reloaders can provide insights, but always prioritize data from established and reliable sources.
Bullet Manufacturer Resources
Bullet manufacturers also provide load data, specific to their products, and offer helpful reloading guidance. Their websites are a great place to look for load information that will help you achieve optimal performance with their products.
Decoding Load Data Charts
Understanding how to read a load data chart is crucial. These charts typically include several essential pieces of information:
The Caliber: This clearly indicates the cartridge for which the data is intended.
Bullet Weight and Type: This specifies the weight of the bullet (in grains) and its construction (e.g., FMJ, HP, SP). Using the incorrect bullet weight or type can change the ballistics and lead to overpressure.
Powder Charge Weights: These are given as minimum and maximum loads (usually in grains). Never exceed the maximum recommended load. Always begin at the starting load and carefully work your way up, observing for signs of excessive pressure.
Primer Type: The primer is the component of the cartridge that initiates the ignition of the powder. The chart will recommend a specific primer.
Case Type: This refers to the brand and type of cartridge case used during testing. While most brass cases are generally similar, there can be subtle differences that influence performance.
Overall Cartridge Length (OAL): This measurement is the distance from the base of the cartridge to the tip of the bullet. Maintaining the correct OAL is critical for safety and accuracy.
Velocity Information: Charts often provide velocity data, measured in feet per second (fps), at a specific barrel length.
Additional Notes and Warnings: These notes may contain warnings about pressure, specific bullet types, and other critical information to ensure safe practices.
Verifying and Cross-Referencing Data
It’s extremely important to cross-reference data from multiple sources. If you find discrepancies, err on the side of caution, and choose the more conservative load. Always start with the minimum recommended powder charge and carefully observe your firearm for any signs of overpressure.
Exploring Load Data Examples for Popular Calibers
Please note, the following examples are presented for informational purposes only. ALWAYS refer to a reputable reloading manual and/or manufacturer’s data for specific instructions.
The .308 Winchester
The .308 Winchester, a favorite among hunters and target shooters, performs exceptionally well with Reloader 15. Here’s an example:
Bullet Weight and Type: 168-grain Sierra MatchKing.
Starting Load of Reloader 15: 42.0 grains.
Maximum Load of Reloader 15: 46.0 grains.
Primer: Federal Gold Medal Match or equivalent.
Overall Cartridge Length (OAL): 2.800 inches (may vary based on your rifle).
Expected Velocity: 2600-2750 fps (dependent on barrel length).
Important Notes: Watch for signs of pressure (flattened primers, hard bolt lift, etc.). Start low and work up cautiously, as always.
The 6.5 Creedmoor
The 6.5 Creedmoor is known for its long-range accuracy, and Reloader 15 can help unlock its potential.
Bullet Weight and Type: 140-grain Hornady ELD Match.
Starting Load of Reloader 15: 38.0 grains.
Maximum Load of Reloader 15: 40.5 grains.
Primer: Federal 210M or equivalent.
Overall Cartridge Length (OAL): 2.825 inches (may vary).
Expected Velocity: 2700-2850 fps (dependent on barrel length).
Important Notes: Again, start at the lower charge and carefully monitor for pressure signs.
The .223 Remington
The .223 Remington is a popular choice for varmint hunting and target shooting.
Bullet Weight and Type: 55-grain FMJ.
Starting Load of Reloader 15: 24.0 grains.
Maximum Load of Reloader 15: 26.0 grains.
Primer: CCI Small Rifle or equivalent.
Overall Cartridge Length (OAL): 2.200 inches (may vary).
Expected Velocity: 3100-3300 fps (dependent on barrel length).
Important Notes: Pay close attention to the overall cartridge length, especially when using various bullets.
Remember to adjust loads accordingly, and always consult reliable sources like a manual for specifics.
The Reloading Process and Best Practices
Essential Equipment
You’ll need a reloading press, a set of reloading dies, a digital scale (or beam scale), a case trimmer, a case cleaner (tumbler), and a caliper for measurements.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Prepare the Cases: Clean, size, trim, deburr, and chamfer the cartridge cases.
Prime the Cases: Seat the primers in the primed case using your reloading press.
Charge the Cases: Carefully weigh the correct amount of powder using a scale and a powder measure.
Seat the Bullets: Using the seating die, seat the bullets into the cases to the correct OAL.
Inspect the Loaded Cartridges: Check for consistency in OAL, bullet seating, and any signs of defects.
Safety During Reloading
Always wear eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling powder particles. Double-check your powder charges to prevent potential errors. Inspect cases for defects. Never mix powders or reuse loads that have experienced excessive pressure.
Best Practices for Accuracy
Ensure consistent powder charges. Maintaining a consistent powder charge is perhaps the most vital factor in achieving great accuracy. Proper bullet seating depth: The seating depth can influence accuracy, so experiment to find what works best for your rifle. Proper case preparation is important, so ensure each of your components is top-quality.
Pressure Signs and Troubleshooting
Indicators of Excessive Pressure
Flattened primers, cratered primers, ejector marks on the case head, difficult bolt lift, and case head expansion are all signs of excessive pressure.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Inconsistent Velocities: Ensure consistent powder charges, use quality cases and bullets, and a consistent primer type.
Failure to Feed/Extract: Check your OAL, adjust your reloading dies, and inspect your magazine and firearm.
Poor Accuracy: Ensure uniform bullet seating depth, use quality components, and address any problems with the firearm itself (scope, etc.).
Conclusion
Successful reloading is a blend of knowledge, precision, and adherence to safety protocols. Using Reloader 15 load data, you can optimize your rifle’s performance.
Remember that safe reloading is a continuous learning process, so continue to seek knowledge from reloading manuals and other resources. The effort can be truly rewarding when you achieve the accuracy you desire.
