Super Confused Handloading the 7.62x54R

[Josh Smith]

Hi Folks,

I've been searching around trying to remember what my favorite Varget load has been for the 7.62x54R.

Now, I Googled my name and the caliber. Plenty of info came up. Seems I started loading with 45 grains and worked my way up. Sounds about right.

However, I'm sitting here looking at a new manual dedicated to the 7.62x54R. It's a collection of Hodgdon, Sierra, and Hornady loads.

For a 150grn bullet...

Hornady lists 37.2grns starting/46.5grns max for 2800fps.

Sierra lists 43.0grns starting/47.0grns max for 2600fps.

Hodgdon lists 47grns starting/50.5grns max for 2985fps.

I can understand some discrepancy due to barrel and bullet, but I'm honestly puzzled here.

Why is Hodgdon's starting load above max for Hornady and right at max for Sierra???

I simply don't understand. I've been loading the 7,92x57J and haven't seen anything as wide open as this.

Advice?

Thanks,

Josh

[Darryl]

I'll make it worse....here is what Kari used
http://www.russian-mosin-nagant-forum.c ... f=30&t=444

Different powders and different primers all make a big difference from what I gather. I'm too new at this to be of real help!

Dolk