CFE223, 8208XBR, AR Comp, Leverevolution, H335, are all good powders in the Grendel, depending on the bullet used. I use CCI 450's with ball powders and GM205MAR's with others.
The 123 SST has not had the greatest reputation for accuracy lately, but some rifles still like it.
I have three "favorite bullets" for my Grendel's, 120 Gold Dot, 129 ABLR, 120 Ballistic Tip-Hunting and I am working on 120 Pro-Hunter as I get time.
You may find that on the first firing, your cases shoulder datum grows what seems to be an excessive amount, don't sweat it, SAAMI min. chamber is 1.220 to .350 datum, but most factory cases run about 1.205 (Lapua)-1.210 (Hornady) as measured with the Hornady comparator tool. Some chambers are shorter than SAAMI spec.
Just set the shoulder back .003 for your fired cases, and rock on. A set of Redding Shell holders is very helpful here. Good cases last a long time and won't need much trimming once they are fire formed to your chamber. I use Lapua and Starline.
Be careful watching for "pressure signs", about the time they show up, you are already somewhat over pressure. 52000 MAP. If you see ejector swipes, definitely back down a little. Worst case is a broken bolt, that doesn't happen very much. Unless it's really pushed.
Just some "fun facts to know and tell" specific to the 6.5 Grendel.
The Grendel is a highly accurate cartridge that has amazing game taking capability, but there is a little more of a learning curve to hand loading for it.
I don't even get out the .308 700 or the '86 Win. 45- 70 much anymore to hunt with.
Place your shots and chow down.
The 123 SST has not had the greatest reputation for accuracy lately, but some rifles still like it.
I have three "favorite bullets" for my Grendel's, 120 Gold Dot, 129 ABLR, 120 Ballistic Tip-Hunting and I am working on 120 Pro-Hunter as I get time.
You may find that on the first firing, your cases shoulder datum grows what seems to be an excessive amount, don't sweat it, SAAMI min. chamber is 1.220 to .350 datum, but most factory cases run about 1.205 (Lapua)-1.210 (Hornady) as measured with the Hornady comparator tool. Some chambers are shorter than SAAMI spec.
Just set the shoulder back .003 for your fired cases, and rock on. A set of Redding Shell holders is very helpful here. Good cases last a long time and won't need much trimming once they are fire formed to your chamber. I use Lapua and Starline.
Be careful watching for "pressure signs", about the time they show up, you are already somewhat over pressure. 52000 MAP. If you see ejector swipes, definitely back down a little. Worst case is a broken bolt, that doesn't happen very much. Unless it's really pushed.
Just some "fun facts to know and tell" specific to the 6.5 Grendel.
The Grendel is a highly accurate cartridge that has amazing game taking capability, but there is a little more of a learning curve to hand loading for it.
I don't even get out the .308 700 or the '86 Win. 45- 70 much anymore to hunt with.
Place your shots and chow down.