257 weatherby mag reloading?

[Jeremiah P]

What are some your overall lengths for you who reload for the 257 wby mag? I'm currently using 3.370 but 3.380 will fit tight in the chamber and easily into the mag. Thanks

[Jamieb]

3.330" with 110gr accubonds
3350" with 115gr bergers
Plenty of "jump" with both but thats where thier accurate.

[Skyvalhunter]

it depends on your gun. Do the test to find out what the max length is for your rifle

[Bob33]

My friend's shoots best at 3.15.  Don't assume longer is always better.

[JackOfAllTrades]

My friend's shoots best at 3.15.  Don't assume longer is always better.

True for nearly every rifle out there. Testing loads at spec OACL to find the most accurate, then start seating longer to find the sweet spot. I know rifles that run best with seating the bullet just touching the lands, but others that like to be set back a bit more than .010". And this is different for the same rifle with different bullets.

Pay particular attention to over presure signs when you start seating longer.

-Steve

[Jamieb]

The wby need some freebore, thats how wby gets the speed without overpressure.

[JackOfAllTrades]

The wby need some freebore, thats how wby gets the speed without overpressure.

TRUE!  Thus my pressure signs warning. Do not take this lightly with large volume cartridges.

-Steve

[MuleySniper]

I think that is specific to Weatherby rifles, not necessarily the caliber though.
MS

[Jamieb]

Not just Wby rifles but all brand rifles chambered for a wby cartridge.

[MuleySniper]

Huh, I didn't know that. I was always under the impression it was just wby rifles. Learn something new everyday!
MS

[Bob33]

Huh, I didn't know that. I was always under the impression it was just wby rifles. Learn something new everyday!
MS

Weatherby ammunition is safe when fired in a chamber with freebore, because it allows the bullet to accelerate before hitting the lands.  If there is not sufficient freebore, the pressure will increase and can become dangerous.  This is often learned by those wanting a "custom" rifle in a Weatherby caliber.  The custom makers typically do not want much freebore because it is presumed to result in a loss of accuracy.  The rifle without sufficient freebore cannot safely fire Weatherby ammunition loaded to factory specifications.