17-222 Rem Starter Loads

[tred1956]

Hi,
Finally got the reloading shop rebuilt and setup to suit me. New shelves to organize supplies and built a shed to hold all the extras I had accumulated KEEPING ME FROM LOADING BENCH. Have some new and used (to learn with) brass. About 3500 various (from 17 to 37 grain) bullets and close to 35 pounds of powder with a good local supply if I don't have what I need. Also have about 20,000 primers. It is an election year.

Will be shooting from a 14 inch Contender barrel. Mostly paper punching but it would not be wise for a standing ear shot to present itself.

Now my question. What powder charge/bullet weight combination would be a good starting point? I have never loaded for this round so any and all advice will be appreciated. I looked on Hogdon website but not much info. Not looking for absolute max just a good solid performer.

Thanks in advance,
Doug

[17VLD]

In my rifle I had good luck with Varget believe it or not.My rifle is a Sako L461 chambered by PO Ackley.It is old school and a 10 twist,I assume your Contender is a 10 too.I have to shoot 25's and 20's the 30's won't stabilize,also the 25V-Max won't stabilize in a 10 either.22.5 grains of Varget shoot well with the Federal 205M.Not sure of the velocity you will get in the pistol,guessing 3500fps.17 Remington data is a good place to start as far as powder burn rates that work well.Of course you will need to start low and work up in .2 grain increments,17's can be touchy keep your bore clean and watch for pressure.Have fun!
Matt

[bumtownbutch]

I shoot a 20VVT necked down to 17. They like
22.2 grs. AA2520, 25gr. Horn HP (moly);
22.3 grs. Benchmark, 25 gr. Horn HP (moly);
19.4 grs. X-terminator, 25 gr. Horn HP (moly);
21.8 grs. XBR 8208, 25 gr. V-Max (moly);
22.2 grs. TAC, 25 gr. V-Max (moly);
18.8 grs. AA2200, 25 gr. V-Max (moly).
Use these loads for reference only, as they only shoot well in my rifles. Please use and follow safe reloading practices.