.243 AI

[Wazukie]

Anyone reload for this?  I was given a rifle chambered in 243 AI.  ITs built off a Rem 722 action and has a very heavy Shilen 26" barrel.  I need to work of a load.  Im going to use it for long range fun out to 1000 yrds.

[FALFire]

What is the twist rate? That will make a difference for your long range shooting.

http://www.reloadersnest.com/frontpage.asp?CaliberID=105

[rbros]

Reloadersnest is a good start.  Find out your twist rate and that will tell you what bullets you can run.  For long range, use the heaviest Berger your twist will allow for. 

[Wazukie]

So I have a 1:10.  I picked up some 95grn Berger VLD's.  Will hopefully get a load worked up and go test it tomorrow.  We'll see what happens.

[AWS]

The 243 AI is one of the cartridges that gains little over the parent case aside from the trimming factor.  Most of the gains seen are from pushing the pressure high.  You could start with just under max loads for the standard 243 and work from there. 

[rbros]

Usually around 150fps over a standard 243 in the 50+ I have built for guys.  Where it really shines is with today's slower powders and hvy bullets.  Get some RL22 to use with the 95s.

[Wazukie]

SO I started with some 87 grn Berger VLD  42 gr Varget 
1st three went .370"  Next 2 were pulled a bit.  Will keep working on it.

[fishnate]

I use 55gr nosler with 46 gr H380 nice tight groups. Prob not best for long range but great on the dogs.