50 BMG Powder Choices

[Rambler]

Hi, I am new to reloading the 50 BMG and was wondering what powder to start with. I am loading for an Armilite AR-50.

[Don - LongRangeSupply.com]

My most accurate loads in every 50 I have owned have been with the Amax and H50BMG.

[Big Dog]

So far, mine have been with Lehigh 510-130 800gr Solid with Reloader-50

[50 Shooter]

VV20N29 (222 grs) behind a 750gr AMAX with an OAL of 5.71" got me great repeatability out of my AR-50. The problem is, man that powder is expensive! Then throw in the cost of the AMAX and a new case (first load only) and man you have at least a $5 round, more like $6-7.

 

Like I said, after the first firing the case is free and if you're using CCI primers the cost is the minimum out of the whole process. If using match primers, you'll definitely think about their cost. Anyway, Vihtavouri powder is great stuff but if you're not competing it's a lot for just plinking. After that I would use H50BMG at 218 grs at the same length or what works in your rifle. Both loads are easy shooting and won't beat you up. It also won't beat up the rifle and other pieces such as that good brass you bought. You did measure it to see that it's length is 3.90" OAL correct?

 

Did you buy the tools from K&M to work your brass? Primer pocket uniformer, flash hole deburring tool, crimp remover... I would add a neck turning tool but unless competing, you don't need it. Jeez how much did you want to spend? LOL, it's all for having a good time right?

 

Anyway, you'll have to do some work once you find a powder and load that works in your rifle. As for pull down powders (military) I usually just drop 215 grs in the case and it works great with all military projos from ball to APIT. Plus it doesn't use a lot of powder and it a light load. One thing about pull down powders, you should work up loads if you buy different lot numbers and powder types. Keep an eye out for any pressure signs when shooting pull down powders also. 215 grs is light but it could be hot from one batch to the next. Be safe, any questions just ask.