Thread: .243 for 500m shots

Recently bought some RL26 and tried in my 7mm WSM with good results. Figured it may be worth a try in the .243. Found a formula to try and finished up at 48 gr RL 26 behind a Speer 100 gr SPBT with .430 BC at 3125 fps average. At 400 yds I have several 3 shot groups of 2.8 down to 2.2 inches, and one at 1.5. Rifle is a Tikka M55 fitted with a 23" Sako sporter profile barrel with twist rate that I have never checked, probably 1:10. Velocity and energy at 400 yds should be around 2283 fps and 1157 ft/lb respectively. At 500 yds 2096 fps and 975 ft lb; so not bad for what is a true hunting projectile with just an average BC, other projectiles out there with much better BC than this. Incidentally according to drop and measured velocity the BC appeared very close to the claimed figure. Haven't shot any deer with it yet but would be optimistic about it working fine in the right situation on Reds out to 500 yds, have seen plenty die with less being thrown at them than this. As with all loads start lower down and work up.