by jmbod » Sun Nov 22, 2020 2:21 pm
I have shot 250 g coated (red hi-tech) to get on paper, then switch to 250 ftx. I reduced the load from the 250 ftx down to minimum H 110, at 37 grains ( 4 grains less than max), 2.07 oal. I slighty flared the case mouth, so bullet base inserted in about 1/16, and light crimped case mouth to .478 which is the factory measurement I made from federal 450bm. I believe the case mouth needs to be to spec so the mouth headspaces correctly. I read internet specs of .473-4 but I went with factory measurement.
FPS (hodgdon data) is 2030, so probably around 2000 fps, When sighting in I started about 40 yds, bullets shot fine and showed no pressure signs. At 40 the impact was about 3" off (left) from my bore sighted setting, the next shot at 60 was close to the first shot.
Then I changed to the ftx 250's to dial in the poi. and as expected they were off a bit and I dialed them in at 100 yds. Of course since I have my gun dialed in for 250's that is my go to bullet loaded to 39.2 grains estimated 2100 fps, accurate and effective.
My take on the coated cast is favorable for up to 2000, with commercial coatings (powder coating would require testing). I used a swc bullet which probably has killed many deer. Adopters of hard cast bullets would do research to get factual first hand info. Look at buffalo bore and other commercial offerings and their recommendations. Of course for reloading Keith style bullet is required: a flat meplat is needed for hunting, energy transfer and good wound channel.