Thread: 2 x 223 Deer loads

Originally Posted by Tahr

Someone might be interested in my mucking around upping my 223 for deer & pigs.

I've settled on using 55grn Barnes TTSX 55 grn with 2208 (3220fps) and 69grn Targex with BLC-2 (2900 fps)

I've used the Barnes on pigs so far and they have been excellent. Still to try the Targex, but if they are like the 243 Targex I use, they will be great too.

20" barrel & 1:9 twist. Its a 6lb Savage light weight.

The Barnes have been the hardest to get to shoot, and I've tried BM2, 748 and BLC-2. 2208 and BM2 have been the best. Still not bug hole groups with the Barnes, but at about .75" or under its good enough for hunting.

Top group Barnes, bottom group the Targex. These are typical groups at 100 yds for the 2 loads.

It appears 24gr 748 in 222 with 53gr Barnes TSX returns groups like your Targex groups. About 2.130 OAL with projectile seated to top cannelure ring.Mate shot fallow spiker thru ear @160m with this reload.