Thread: Just the tip......7 rem mag A-Tip load development

Recently picked up a Bergara B14 Wilderness in 7mm rem mag and have been keen to get into load development (always the way).
I have owned a few Rem mags (3 from memory) and developed loads for a few more as well.
Earlier efforts saw me using 162gn ELDM's to devastating effect, mode recently I have loaded 180gn ELDM's again super accurate and phenomenal BC
I am a self proclaimed BC slut and despite that I have decided to try Hornady 166gn A-Tips even though the 180gn ELDM's have a superior BC.
I just like trying different stuff
I'm holding high hopes for these A-Tips and rightboff the bat I can say they are super consistent in finish, weight and length.
Really nice to work with.



I couldn't find load data with Retumbo/ADI2225 in hornady load manual however Hogdon list 166gn a tip data on their website which was very handy.



First up I set about working out my jam length using the loctite method I learnt from Ultimate Reloader on YouTube.
I came up with 2.4715" ogive measurement and 3.4585 C.O.A.L (I never work with C.O.A.L but have included it for reference later).
For my charge ladder I will work up in 1gn increments with the A-Tips seated 10thou off my jam measurement.
I have started my ladder at 72gn and have loaded right up to 75gn (yes 2 gn over book max )
The reason for this is that at book max of 73gn Hogdon states it is a compressed load when seated to SAAMI length 3.290" C.O.A.L
My C.O.A.L is 3.4485" which is a decent bit longer giving me ample room in the case resulting in a book max load not being anywhere near compressed, in fact even at 2 full grains over book max I am still not compressed.
Obviously the usual warnings apply work up carefully and every rifle is different etc etc, if at any stage I get pressure signs (velocity being the best indicator) then I don't need to shoot the higher charges, obviously I'll be watching for sticky bolt and super flat primers but velocity will be my primary pressure indication if even if none of the other signs are evident.
I'd like to see an accuracy node around 3000fps but will have to see what the rifle likes at the end of the day.
Anyway I'm all set to go just need to pray for a break in the weather so I can shoot my ladder and analyze the results.










(I didn't load 71gn as i felt my longer COAL would see my velocity drop too much)