Thread: Powder selection for 6.5x55 M38 Swede.

I have an M38 Swedish Mauser on the way and will be reloading for it. I'm planning to use 140gr HPBT projectiles and trying to match the service load velocity (from what I understand this is around 2550fps?)

What powders has everyone had good luck with? I am planning to try 2209 and maybe 2208 as I have them on hand, but I see powders in the range of 2213SC are regularly recommended.

Shiny brass for your viewing pleasure.

2209. I don't have a std Swede rather one on steroids (AI).
I use WW760 but did do initial loads using 2209. My research at the time said 2209 was the go to for the std version.
I use WW760 in the Ackley to try and extend barrel life. WW760 has a lower flame temperature.
I use Sierra 142gr MK moly coated projectiles. This is the last of my rifles that I'll feed with molyed projectiles. Too much stuffing around.

Yes ,2209 is good as is Staball 6.5 which has a similar burn rate as 2209. 2213SC is good too. I have a Tikka so can load a bit hotter than the military rifles but you should be able to develop a good load with the above powders.

I usually use 2209 in my two hunting x55s. I use 2208 in my mil m38 for service rifle loads

Greetings,
There are two 6.5x55 rifles in my cupboard, a M38 and a T3. I have used AR2209 in both. Current production AR2209 is a little faster than that used in the ADI data so 42 grain should get you in the right area with the 140 grain projectile. 36 grains of AR 2208 or 47 grains of AR2213SC would do the job as well. You will find that most dies move the shoulder back too far so match your length to datum for your rifle or case life could be really short.
GPM.

Another powder that may be available in your area is R22. I have been loading 140gr Amax for a Tikka 695, RWS primers for consistent 2750ft/sec. This is faster than you want but should load down successfully. The only downside to this powder, according to the pundits on the net, is less temperature stability compared to the ADI powders. I have not noticed this as a problem.

Originally Posted by grandpamac

Greetings,
There are two 6.5x55 rifles in my cupboard, a M38 and a T3. I have used AR2209 in both. Current production AR2209 is a little faster than that used in the ADI data so 42 grain should get you in the right area with the 140 grain projectile. 36 grains of AR 2208 or 47 grains of AR2213SC would do the job as well. You will find that most dies move the shoulder back too far so match your length to datum for your rifle or case life could be really short.
GPM.

Thanks, this is great info. I have full length sized all the brass I have as it's all once fired but from multiple different rifles, all PPU. I intend to collet neck size only going forward, with a minimal shoulder bump only when required.
I'm sure I will find something that works with 2209 or 2208.

Are you going to hunt with it or do service rifle shoots?

For service, I use a load of 36-38 gns of 2208 behind a sierra 142 hpbt. Need to check my load book. Pretty common load among mil service shooters.


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For service I was using a min 2208 load with a 140 speer hot core

Originally Posted by grandpamac

Greetings,
There are two 6.5x55 rifles in my cupboard, a M38 and a T3. I have used AR2209 in both. Current production AR2209 is a little faster than that used in the ADI data so 42 grain should get you in the right area with the 140 grain projectile. 36 grains of AR 2208 or 47 grains of AR2213SC would do the job as well. You will find that most dies move the shoulder back too far so match your length to datum for your rifle or case life could be really short.
GPM.

My old 6.5x55 was 42.4gr of 2209 as well. That was pushing a 139gr at about 2500-2600 fps (ish)

Cheers, I will be using it for service rifle and already have some Speer 140s to try as they are the cheapest 6.5 proj in NZ I can find.

I also want a load for longer range, so will be working on either Lapua 139s or Hornady 140gr HPBT. Found 2kg of 2209 I didn't know I had today, so that's a nice Christmas present.

I use N560 in my Sako 85. I've heard comments that it burns dirty but I haven't noticed, although I don't typically put a lot of rounds through at one time.
RL22 is also very popular if you can get it. I think N560 and RL22 have similar burn rates but don't take my word on that