The .260 Remington, a popular cartridge known for its accuracy and versatility, pairs exceptionally well with H4350 powder. This guide provides comprehensive load data for the .260 Remington using H4350, emphasizing safety and precision. Always consult your own reloading manuals and prioritize safety above all else. This information is for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for responsible reloading practices.
Understanding the Cartridge and Powder
The .260 Remington, a bottlenecked cartridge, is prized for its flat trajectory and moderate recoil, making it suitable for a variety of hunting applications and long-range target shooting. H4350, a relatively slow-burning extruded powder, is a common choice for this cartridge due to its ability to generate consistent velocities and excellent accuracy. However, its slower burn rate necessitates careful attention to powder charges and overall load development.
Factors Affecting Load Data
Several factors influence optimal load data for the .260 Remington with H4350. These include:
- Bullet Weight: Heavier bullets generally require higher powder charges to achieve desired velocities.
- Bullet Type: The bullet's ballistic coefficient (BC) and construction influence its performance and the required powder charge. Match-grade bullets typically demand more precise load development.
- Case Capacity: Variations in case capacity between manufacturers can impact optimal powder charges. Consistent case preparation is crucial.
- Primer Type: Primer type can influence ignition and overall pressure, so consistency is key.
- Rifle Barrel: The length and twist rate of the rifle barrel significantly affect bullet stability and velocity.
- Environmental Conditions: Temperature and humidity can affect powder burn rate and therefore velocity.
Sample Load Data (Illustrative Only – Not a Substitute for Your Manual)
The following data is for illustrative purposes only. Do not use this data without consulting your own reloading manuals and conducting thorough load development in accordance with safety guidelines. Always start at the minimum charge and work up gradually, carefully monitoring pressure signs.
(This data is hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Always refer to your reloading manual.)
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Bullet Type | H4350 Charge (grains) | COL (inches) | Primer Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 | Match Grade Boat Tail | 42.0 - 44.0 | 2.800 | Small Rifle | Start low, work up carefully |
| 140 | Nosler Accubond | 40.0 - 42.0 | 2.820 | Small Rifle | Start low, work up carefully |
| 147 | Sierra MatchKing | 39.0 - 41.0 | 2.830 | Small Rifle | Start low, work up carefully |
COL refers to Cartridge Overall Length. Proper COL is crucial for optimal accuracy and safety.
Safe Reloading Practices: A Critical Reminder
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Never exceed maximum recommended charges listed in your reloading manual.
- Pay close attention to pressure signs. These can include flattened primers, excessive primer flow, or unusually high case pressures.
- Clean your rifle regularly to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Store ammunition properly in a cool, dry place.
- Dispose of spent primers and powder safely.
- Consult your manual thoroughly before attempting any reloading.
Developing Your Own Loads
The key to successful reloading is careful load development. Start with the minimum charge listed in your reloading manual and work up gradually, testing for accuracy and pressure signs at each step. Keep meticulous records of your findings, including the components used, charges, and resulting velocities and accuracy. Remember, accuracy and safety should always be your top priorities.
This guide provides a foundation for understanding .260 Remington load data with H4350. However, independent research, careful load development, and adherence to safety guidelines are paramount for responsible reloading. Always prioritize safety and consult reliable reloading manuals before beginning this process.
