I am using a hand-loaded 60 grain vmax bullet in a Savage that is accurate to 0.3 MOA at 100 yards... Problem is that the bullet creates a fairly large (~ 8 cm) diameter exit wound which destroys, or at least, greatly reduces pelt value. Does anyone have advice on reloading 223 rounds (ie bullet type, weight etc) that will put them down without creating exit wounds
My load: 55gr. VMax behind 25.5gr Varget, WSR primers.
My partner's load: 50gr. Nosler Ballistic tips behind 25.5 gr. Benchmark, ? primers.
Both load are very accurate, the Benchmark load is faster, but my Varget load is more accurate. On average, I would have to say that pelt damage is minimal with both. I haven't seen an exit hole with mine, but I do try to hit them at 200 or so yards. Bullet velocity drops and becomes less likely to exit.
Like Dick said, try a lighter bullet,depending on your rifle twist.I'm also shooting .223 for coyotes and shoot the 40gr Vmax w/H335 out a 24" 1:12 barrel.Very seldom do I ever have a blow out.
My load: 55gr. VMax behind 25.5gr Varget, WSR primers.
I use a similar load:
- 55 Hornady VMax
- Case full of HVarget
- WW Brass
- CCIBR Primers
Equals great accuracy out of my M700 223. I haven't had the same luck with exits though, roughly 50/50. Ranges from 50-450. Kinda got addicted to the accuracy of the load though........ good for the confidence.
Think I'll use this load one more season and see how it goes. Might try the lighter bullet option or a tougher bullet, if results don't improve.....
coyote load for 223
Kinda got addicted to the accuracy of the load though........ good for the confidence.
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