Loading for .223 carbine length barrels

[TackyDriver 0]

After shooting my S223, I can definitely agree that these puppies are loud. Haven't had a chance to verify the muzzle flash because it's never been dark enough when shooting. Like my experience with the Saiga, I'm also a newb to reloading. Because of the 16+ inch barrel, could the flash and sound be lessened by using a faster burning powder? I figure at least less unburned powder/ejecta being thrown out will cut down on the flash. At the range it is not a problem, but could be in dark, confined places.

 

There's no point in reloading until I get the AK cartridge dent problem fixed. I'm trying some vinyl auto door edge trim on the aft end of the ejection port since I'm such a cheap SOB. Will see how well that works and holds up tomorrow. Thanks for any advice you all might have. No one needs to give me specific loads since I don't want anyone to be exposed to liability hassles. Just tell me what powders work well for you and I'll get the manuals. Have a good weekend.

Edited May 11, 2013 by TackyDriver

[YOT 3,743]

Stick with published reloading data.

[liberty -r- death 1,445]

Yep what Yeoldetool said. If you drop below published data you could get a squib and the follow up bullet could cause damage or injury.

[IndyArms 10,186]

since you are not going to be shooting thousand yard matches, or asking SUB MOA performance from your SAIGA .223... LOAD the dimpled rounds. The full length resizing dies will take most of it out, and they will reload and shoot just fine the next time. You may not get QUITE the number of reloads out of it you would from a bolt action... but you should get SEVERAL... Also, typically the bolt puts a dimple in the base of the brass at the primer too... nothing you can do about that one if yoursd makes that dimple.

 

 

[555JM 10]

To cut down on flash and noise, I'd try starting loads of a couple of the faster powders. IMR 4198 and AA1680 come to mind. The old red Lee manual had .223 loads for both, but the latest version seems to have dropped 1680. You might have to visit the Accurate Arms site to get the latest data.

 

Don't get creative. Stick with published data.

[TackyDriver 0]

Thanks for the advice. Sorry to delay, but just got my computer back from repair. I'll try using the dented brass. IMR 4198 sounds good. I also use H4198 for my 45-70 and that has about the same burn rate. Thanks for your help.