Thread: The Howikka Test Bed

Originally Posted by Tentman

I've got a Ziess HD5 3-15 coming, supposedly under 500gms/18oz. I'm also getting a Nielson sonic 35 as that should save a useful amount over the DPT.

My stock is walnut and currently 960gms, it might get a few grams removed from under the barrel and the butt.

Barrel is 530mm/21" and I've had the 77s at an honest 2960 but that's pushing 65,000psi according to GRT, which I'm not sure is a good idea in 223 brass. The 2930 is closer to 60,000psi which is a wee bit saner, especially if a cobber grabs a couple of rounds off ya. I'm not worried about brass life, it's a hunting rifle and it's mostly lost anyway. Brass is Geco, it's not showing any pressure signs at all and primer pockets are still good after 3 reloads. The big thing is mag length, I've got 61.5mm which is way more than the Sako 75/85 (with the consequence for them that anything over 2900 requires pressures beyond sensible).

I'm happy as larry shooting things with 80s out to 400+m at 2700-2800fps MV. Bear that in mind - is the extra 100fps worth fighting for ?