Hello everyone! This is my first post and Id like to say how great it is to find such a great forum on the 450BM. Lots of great information and there is something to be said about how helpful you all are when questions come up. That being said, I was hoping to get a little feedback on my first attempt at some 450 loads. I've read quite a bit of information already posted in the forum, but I would like a definite answer as to whether I am going about this the right way. So here's what I've got so far.
Rifle: XM-15E2S 16" barrel
Bullet: Xtreme 230gr FMJ .452 - bullet length: .642. BC .161.
Case: Once fired bushmaster
Primer: CCI BR-4 (all I could find locally)
Powder: W296
C.O.L: 2.100.
I've loaded (3) rounds at each of the following charges:
39gr, 39.5gr, 40gr, 40.5gr 41gr, 41.5gr
I also had a question on the taper crimp. I did not expand the case mouths. The bullet seat nicely without it so I didn't bother. Neck tension felt about right through the press stroke and when I measured the mouth it .476-.475, which seems to be what several people have been crimping to. So my question is, do I need to taper crimp at all? Or, should I crimp a little? Say to .473 maybe? (Which I already did.....)
This is my first attempt at straight wall cases so I'm kinda shy about it. Any and all suggestions or comments are much appreciated.
Thanks,
Simp