230 FMJ with IMR 4227 starting load

[TheDecliner]

Hi, I'm reloading 450 bushmaster for the first time and the only powder I could find locally was IMR 4227. I'm using Hornady brand 230gr FMJ RN bullets. I got an OAL gauge so I'm just looking for a starting powder charge. From reading through the posts here it looks like most people are using Lil Gun but I was not able to find any so I'm stuck with the IMR 4227. I was wondering if anyone has tried these bullets with the IMR 4227 and could recommend a starting load? The closest bullet in IMR's reloading data is the 225gr FTX which is calling for a starting powder load of 37.9gr and the the closest bullet in Hornady's reloading data is the 240gr XTP Mag which is calling for a starting powder load of 34gr. I was thinking of starting with something closer to the FTX since it's the closest in weight, maybe 37gr. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!!

[Hoot]

Welcome Aboard OM!

Both the 225 FTX and 240 XTP are .452 diameter bullets. The 230 FMJ's are .451, so you have a little hedge to work with. According to QuickLoad, H4227 runs a little slow for the Hornady 230gr FMJ but not too slow. Go with a COL of 2.05. 38gr is a safe place to start. Jump the charge up a half grain at a time, working up toward 41 (101% fill @ 2.05) while watching for pressure signs. My experience with the 230 FMJ's is the groups will tighten up the further up you go in velocity but I've never tried them with 4227. I used that with 300 gr bullets.

Good Luck

Hoot

[plant_one]

Welcome Aboard OM!

Both the 225 FTX and 240 XTP are .472 diameter bullets.
Hoot

typo - they're 0.452 dia...

[Hoot]

typo - they're 0.452 dia...

Whoops!
A good lesson about typing after midnight. OP corrected.
Thanks for the reality check.

Hoot

[cmd223]

First post here I got a 450BM upper coming in and have some Hornady 230gr FMJ's and HAP bullets with 4227 I was hoping on loading. Did you have any success with this combo?

[Hoot]

First post here I got a 450BM upper coming in and have some Hornady 230gr FMJ's and HAP bullets with 4227 I was hoping on loading. Did you have any success with this combo?

Welcome Aboard OM!

4227 is a tad slow for the 230's but given our current reloading products shortage, it'll get the job done. Try working up from 40gr with a COL of 2.05 and a hot primer like CCI 450, Rem 7 1/2 or Tula Magnum SRP.

I like 4227 for 300gr bullets but its power yield is a little lower than other powders of similar burn rate.

Hoot