Thread: .303 load data

This .303 has a brand new barrel so I would guess it has correct headspace. I use ppu brass and fed mag primers though I ran out with about 5 left so fed large rifle primers.

Originally Posted by Toby

This .303 has a brand new barrel so I would guess it has correct headspace. I use ppu brass and fed mag primers though I ran out with about 5 left so fed large rifle primers.

If you're lucky enough to have a newish barrel on there you don't want to spoil it... If it were fitted by a proper smith, you'd hope he'd have set it up properly. Maybe see if you can borrow a headspace gauge set and have a quick check, Toby, it's fairly important on the lee-Enfield that it's within limits. They produced different numbered (sort of oversizing like pistons) bolt heads for headspace correction in the field. I hope it's a nice shooter.

Shot the last couple of boxes just fine

If its a bit large in the head space its not a huge issue as long as you neck size and don't bump the shoulder right back when fl sizing.
IE size properly not just wind the die down till it hits the case holder.

Originally Posted by Beetroot

What projectile do service rifle guys typically use? an SMK or equivalent, or is there just as good, cheaper options out there?
My understanding is the Lee Enfield is typicaly a 2-3moa rifle, is this accurate enough for service rifle?

If you want to shoot in service class, you can't use match projectiles. 174gr fmj is the ideal, but the 174gr RN is acceptable according to the rules.

With 174gr RN handloads, my 1942 long branch will shoot into 2 MOA with iron sights. I suspect it could do a smidge better, but I'm the limiting factor.

Originally Posted by veitnamcam

If its a bit large in the head space its not a huge issue as long as you neck size and don't bump the shoulder right back when fl sizing.
IE size properly not just wind the die down till it hits the case holder.

Definitely neck size your fired brass. It'll last tons longer that FL sizing. You'll need to FL size every now and again, say every 4 to 6 loads, maybe sooner if you shoot hot loads, but neck sizing will get you a lot more reloads until you start to get signs of case separation.

Also, .303 is one round that benefits from crimping the projectile (don't ask me why, but it is) if you can, try to borrow a lee crimp die and try a light to moderate crimp and see if your groups tighten up.

Originally Posted by scaggly

If you want to shoot in service class, you can't use match projectiles. 174gr fmj is the ideal, but the 174gr RN is acceptable according to the rules.

With 174gr RN handloads, my 1942 long branch will shoot into 2 MOA with iron sights. I suspect it could do a smidge better, but I'm the limiting factor.

What are the rules regarding bullet/ cartridge selection for service rifle?
What range do you typically shoot, and at what sized target.

Originally Posted by Beetroot

What are the rules regarding bullet/ cartridge selection for service rifle?
What range do you typically shoot, and at what sized target.

Here you go. The official word via the service rifle match code. Sets out the rifle/ammo requirements, and describes core matches etc.

www.wsra.org.nz/SMC%204%20%20v8.pdf

Well that was short lived.

I wanted to buy that .303 from my brother but he decided to sell it to his mate for 5hundy.

Kinda pissed as it was a really nice gun and I was lining up a nice 4x40 scope and a limbsaver pad for when I got it.

Oh well lucky I have my crappy smelly in there to use my loads in

bummer...

but $500 without a scope would be a bit steep.

Originally Posted by Toby

This .303 has a brand new barrel so I would guess it has correct headspace. I use ppu brass and fed mag primers though I ran out with about 5 left so fed large rifle primers.

Sorry, I've highjacked this thread a bit already, but it's helping me in my current quest.
Did you get the PPU brass from Prvi/highland loaded ammo, or did you buy it new?

once fired brass from highland

Here it is

Thats not a bad stock there Toby, Shame about the bolt though

Originally Posted by puku

Thats not a bad stock there Toby, Shame about the bolt though

Being on the right side?

Originally Posted by Toby

Well that was short lived.

I wanted to buy that .303 from my brother but he decided to sell it to his mate for 5hundy.

Kinda pissed as it was a really nice gun and I was lining up a nice 4x40 scope and a limbsaver pad for when I got it.

Oh well lucky I have my crappy smelly in there to use my loads in

That's a bit of a bugger for you Toby

Families aye

Save your pingas and something else will come along.

Cheers
Pete