Handloading for my 25-06

[L. Cooper]

If there is one thing that is true about reloading it is that there is nothing that is always true about reloading.

It is very likely that you can improve the accuracy of the rifle by developing a specific load for it. It is also certain that there is a commercial load that will shoot better than the others. Have you tried them all?

Finding the right load simply means trying as many different loads as you can before you get frustrated and decide to use the one you have found to be the best so far. It is impossible to find the perfect load because there are too many variables to test them all.

Many will tell you that self loaders are innacurate, and that is another of those things that is true except when it isn't. You will be limited in your testing by the fact that the ammunition must also function the action reliably as well as shoot strait. Bolt actions are far more adaptable to pressures, overall length, resizing methods, and other variables that constrain semi-autos, which is why most reloaders favor bolt actions. Bolt actions are easier to play with, and are inherently capable of better accuracy, most of the time.

Improving the accuracy of a rifle by reloading is a long process of testing and record keeping. There is no other way. I find that process fun. I hope you do too, because it can go on a long time. Just when you think you have it, someone introduces another bullet, or powder and you have to try that too, and you're off again on another summer long series of trips to the range.

Good luck.