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If using a suitable powder, (IMR4895), would using 175grn Sierra Matchkings in my Garand be ok? Has anyone done this, and if so, with accuracy? I have 1000 bullets that are for my bolt 308, but would like to load them in my Garand, as long as bending the OP rod isnt a possability. Thanks-
Keep the velocity down to 2500 fps or so w/ a suitable burn rate powder and shoot all you want.
You'll probably have plenty more detailed answers shortly! Welcome to the forums, fatelvis!
No problem using the 175SMK with IMR4895 in your Garand. LC M72 Match used a similar weight bullet (~174gr) with anywhere's from 46.0 to 48.1 grains of IMR4895, depending upon the year.
Don
46-46.5 grs IMR4895, have fun.
or
Master Po's Ancient M1 load secret
This is my personal M1 load I use in my CMP M1. It will shoot better than Master Po can. I worked this load up, as you should for your own rifle.
Remington .30/06 cases, flash holes deburred and weighed within 1 grain.
Federal GM210M Primers (Master Po has heard the horror stories of Federal match primers in the M1/M1A rifles. If you're squeamish or new to reloading, use Winchester Large Rifle)
47.0 grains IMR 4064
Sierra 175 grain MatchKing
Overall length 3.340 inches
I have loaded and chronographed loads with the 175 SMK using IMR 4895 and IMR 4064. IMR 4064 gave a little more muzzle velocity out of my rifle, but both powders are great choices.
I compared my handloads with these powders to USGI M72 Match, and the standard deviations on both handloads were less than the factory stuff. My best load with IMR 4895 was 46 grains, which gave an average muzzle velocity of @2490 FPS. My best load with IMR 4064 was 48 grains, which gave an average muzzle velocity of @2613 FPS.
The brass and primers I used were once fired M72 cases and Winchester large rifle primers.
Good shooting.