.310 Cadet Load

[Simon P]

There was an article in Classic Arms Magazine in 1999 on loading the 310 Cadet Rifle, I used this as the basis for my reloading and shoot out to 300M quite accurately.

Modified 32/20 cases thin rimmed.
North Devon Fireams Services (NDFS) Dies
RCBS mould designed & sold by NDFS
4.5grns of unique
Lubed with Lees Liquid Alox

Jim at North Devon Firearms told me that he found Military 310 cadet rifles would often accept the 32/20 cartridge case without being thinned down, but this was not generally the norm for commercial rifles in 310 calibre, sadly NDFS are no more.

[Muzza]

G'day all

There is a wealth of knowledge about 310 cadets around. If any of you are still following this thread I have need of some expertise. I am having trouble with keyholing in my 310 cadet - a BSA. Was trying a new load 4.5gns Trail Boss, Federal small pistol primers 122gn .316 dia Hawkesbury River projies. Some rounds were fine - about 1 in 4 were tumbling. Any ideas please?

[jamie5070]

Have you slugged your bore? Maybe some of the bullets don't bump up enough to catch the rifling.
john

[tcattermole]

I find that my .310 is much happier when I crimp the load, as was the original. The tiny heel on the bullet gives poor neck tension without a crimp, resulting in variable velocities. The crimp also ensures a consistent initial pressure to obturate the bullet into the rifling (see previous response in this thread).

[Muzza]

Thanks for tips.
I've pushed one of the Hawksebury River projies from muzzle to breech, and found it pretty tight most of the way and definitely well-engraved rifling marks.

I have also adjusted the seating die to put a slight crimp on the case.

My previous load of 8.5 grains IMR4227 with small rifle primers was adequately accurate, but always some unburnt powder. When I finished the tin I swapped to TrailBoss and pistol primers on the advice of a club member. TrailBoss is very clean burning, so I want to persevere. Besides, I now have 1.5kg of the stuff. Any one else tried TrailBoss? I can't get much more in the case, but will try for 5 grains. What do you think small rifle primers would do?