6.5-284 load density question

[bryan]

I am just getting my 6.5-284 ready for initial testing. I thought 42.0 H4350 and a Hornady 140 Match would be a starting load, but that load is WAY down in the case! I rechecked the zero on the scale.....OK. Is something wrong, or is that powder just that fast? It looks to be 3/8" or more below the shoulder!
I hesitate to proceed with such poor load density.
Is this right?

Thanks
Bryan

 

[dmoran65]

42-grains would be a very mild/low load.
46-grains would be nearer a upper load.
49-grains would be max load.

 

[JerrySharrett]

I am just getting my 6.5-284 ready for initial testing. I thought 42.0 H4350 and a Hornady 140 Match would be a starting load, but that load is WAY down in the case! I rechecked the zero on the scale.....OK. Is something wrong, or is that powder just that fast? It looks to be 3/8" or more below the shoulder!
I hesitate to proceed with such poor load density.
Is this right?

Thanks
Bryan

Bear in mind since this is just theoretical, from QuickLoad ballistics program, but your load shows 72.6% load density and just over 33,600# and
2490 fps. Make sure to double check this data. Sounds really light on pressure. This also on the 284 Lapua case which shows 66g water vs 64g water for the 284 Win case.

 

[bryan]

Light load

I am using 284 Win. brass, and 42 grains is a very light load, but my intention is to verify that all is well with the rifle before subjecting it
to the rigors of heavy loads. That pressure looks awful low, so maybe a bit more would be in order. My main concern was the very low
low (visually) loading density since I am used to nearly 100% in point blank benchrest.
BA