7mm-08 Handloads with CFE 223

[exxonv]

Hello,

Anybody here load 7mm-08 for a good hunting load using CFE 223? Hodgdon's shows the following:

Starting Load:
41.4 grains
2,666 velocity

Max Load:

45.0 grains
2,847 velocity

I am looking for input from anyone who has tried this combination and if so, how were the results.

Thanks!
ExxonV

[whitewalrus]

May want to list the bullet, or at least weight range, you are looking to use - unless you are open to any load using that powder.


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[exxonv]

My bad, I have 139 grain Hornady GMX bullets. Also interested in 140 and 150 grain loads.

I have a Chronograph, was curious how CFE 223 does with these bullet weights.

[Sawin]

I have several loads for 7-08 I’d be glad to share but none with that powder. Good luck though.

[exxonv]

I'm open to any info - not going to be buying any different powder for awhile, but information is always good! What powders to you use and what loads for what bullet weights?

Thanks!

[zimagold]

I had excellent results with Varget across multiple weights. Never tried CFE 223.

Edit: Final load choices.

120gr Soft Point with Min Load @ 2530fps [Reduced Recoil] 1/2MOA

160gr Accubond with Max Load @ 2650fps
1 MOA

160gr zero is 200yds, 120gr ends up at 155yds with no shift in windage.

Made a great east coast deer rifle with the option for trips west for elk.

[exxonv]

I've seen that is pretty popular in the Lee Reloading 18th Edition. Can't find any, but it'll be back.

[Sawin]

Oh, sorry for my delayed reply.

My 7-08 loads are as follows.

38.2gr IMR 4895 behind 130gr Sierra Match kings with CCI 200 large rifle primers. I use these predominantly for high power silhouette matches so are down from peak pressures and velocity to minimize recoil shooting offhand all day.

Bumping the charge up to 40gr is probably better for general purpose use and would improve FPS by a good bit.

42.4gr of H-380 behind 140gr SMK and 150gr Sierra Game Kings also group well. I’ve used CCI 200’s and Federal 210’s with no significant change in groupings, although the POI did change a little with a 200m zero.

[exxonv]

Thank you! This is very helpful and I can search for those powders. Interesting on the primers causing a difference. Never would've thought that would happen.