Reloading some 303

[Glemhamnorris]

Hi all,

As the new year fast approaches it is time for me to start thinking about reloading some ammunition for my 303s to cover the coming year's use. These days I have to consider the ever escalating cost.
Ammunition used in a Lithgow 1942 No.1, Fazakerli post war No.4 and No.5, the No.5 just for fun. All rifles un-issued when I purchased them over the years, and with little use by me and no ex-government nitro ammo ever used so barrels are good. Range limited to 200m maximum. I am quite happy if I can shoot to the original manufacturing acceptance spec. for the rifles.
I cannot locate any of my usual Reloader 15, but have tracked down some VV N135 and N140 locally.
My question is re the 174gr heads:
Has anybody any experience of the S&B or CZ heads on the market, which are more cost effective than US Sierra?
Many thanks.
Peter

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

[mag41uk]

For 200 yards I would be using cast with your N140 if you want to maintain a "service" sort of load/bang.
More than adequate for 600 yards too.
Soft shooting,accurate,cheap to make and easy on the rifles.
S&B bullets are ok but I think will be 180gn.
Try Kranks for the PPU 174gn bullets and their postage I think is only £4 regardless of weight.
Tony

[Doz]

I've used the PPU 174gn bullets with very good results, although it does sound like you may do well trying cast boolits.

[Alpha1]

I use the PPU 174grain bullets with 41grains of Vitavouri N140 in my .303 rifles.

[Dombo63]

I have had very good results using Sierra Match King (SMK) 174gn bullets in either HXP or PPU brass once fired in my rifle with N140 powder as per manufacturer's tables. S&B bullets I have found to be very inconsistent.
HPS seem to have the best prices for the SMKs

[ovenpaa]

My ideal is HXP brass 174SMK's and N140 or TR140 and for shorter distances I always keep my loads quite modest.

I had good results with the S&B bullets to 1000 yards however Sierra give significantly better results.

[Glemhamnorris]

Hi all,

Many thanks for the very useful feedback.

Peter

[Dougan]

I found the PPU bullets OK too - They're economical and don't shoot badly at all...I also found that the same load and seating depth with SMKs barely changed the zero; so could practice with PPUs and use SMKs for comps.