Still shooting the 20 VT

[lyktorct]

I think you are referring to the Nosler 32 gr Ballistic Tip bullet. The Varmageddon is not lead free, or at least it's not on the Calif list of non lead projectiles. I have tried to load that (BT) bullet but when seated just short of the lands, the bolt won't close. Perhaps a K&M trimmer might be worth while. Oh, and the base of the bullet is well below the neck/shoulder junction.

I use A2200 loading for the 17 Hornet and have found it to be an incredibly dirty propellant. After firing a hundred or so rounds in my CZ 527, the powder fouling actually started to prevent rounds form chambering.

[Bill K]

My typing mistake,, should read try the 32 grain varmageddon and the Lead free 32 grain bullets. Both are very accurate in my rifles. In fact the lead free bullet ban for hunting game and non-game in California has not been a issue, as the lead free shot as well and in some cases better than the lead one's did anyway. But still all will go 3/4 to 1/2 inch groups time and time again. Bill K

As for AA2200 in the 17 Hornet, not the best powder really. It works great in the 20 cal fine, but better in the hornet, you will find, are A1680, 4198, CFE Blk, Lil Gun & 4227. ( by the way all I shoot in my 17 Hornet now is the Hornaday NTX )

[lyktorct]

How deep are you seating the 32 gr Ballistic Tips? How far off the lands? Thanks for all your comments and suggestions. It's clear you have been doing this for while.

[Bill K]

Originally Posted by lyktorct

How deep are you seating the 32 gr Ballistic Tips? How far off the lands? Thanks for all your comments and suggestions. It's clear you have been doing this for while.

I my rifles, they have worked best either just touching or back about 5/10ths, ever so slightly from touching. Bill K

[lyktorct]

I've been using 4180 exclusively for the 20 VT behind 32 gr V max and 39 gr BK with 1/2 and less MOA especially with the 39 BK. Have you noticed any pressure spikes using AA2200 on 90*+ days? It is my understanding ambient temp affects AA2200 more so than the other powders.

[Bill K]

Nothing more than I watch any of the powder loads, when working them up in lower temps and then using them in higher/summer temps. My main loads, for the most part, are for accuracy mostly and they work from minus 13 to upwards of the high 90's, which I deal with in the areas I shoot in. N.E. Commie California. Bill K

[lyktorct]

I was about to invest in a K@M neck trimming set up but have heard the Noslers and Barnes really don't group that well. .. I have some Hornady NTX on order and understand they shoot well.[/quote]

Bill, you favor the 15.5gr Hornady NTX for your 17 Hornet. What is your experience with the Hornady 24gr NTX for the 20 VT? Do you have any load data, suggestions, for using 4198 in this instance? The bolt will close using the 24 gr NTX, and I have a good supply of 4198.