Thread: Factory loads exceeding reload speeds with less pressure signs

Greetings @Stefanhope,
I am always reluctant to suggest new kit to new handloaders like yourself but you could consider the Hornady headspace comparator kit. This allows you to measure the amount that you are setting back the shoulder when full length sizing and greatly simplifies adjusting the die to get the desirable 0.002" (0.05mm) set back. The device clamps onto the jaws of your calliper and comes with a set of barrels for different case dia. Have a look at the Hornady vid.
Looking at my notes I chronographed the start load of 44 grains of AR2208 in a 20" barrel with the 150 grain at 2,560 fps and 45 grains and 25 grains in a 24" barrel for 2,760 fps. Your results line up with these once differences in charge and barrel length are allowed for. I would consider increasing your charge to 45 grains of AR2208 which is still only a mid load and should chronograph around 2,500 fps.
All the best and regards Grandpamac.