Reloading for Mini-14?

[Goldstar225]

I just purchased a new 583 series Mini-14 and will be reloading for it. While far from new to reloading my experience is mainly handguns with some experience in .308/.30-06 in bolt action rifles. As a result I have a few questions but first a few things.

I have ordered the reduced gas port bushings from accuracy systems and will start with either the .040 or.045 bushing.

My preferred bullet will be 62 grains but may vary based on availability.

I have IMR3031 and BLC(2) on hand.

Now the questions:

- Do I need to be concerned about the burn rate of powders in the mini-14 (similar to the concern for the M-1 Garand)?

- Are there better powders that those that I have? (somewhat subjective I know but you are more experienced than I)

- Should I get small base sizing dies or are standard dies sufficient?

I will appreciate everyones input.

 

[john guedry]

I use regular .223 RCBS dies. Hodgdon H335 powder. Not sure if it's the best, but it's all I use.

 

[Goldstar225]

Thanks for the reply. If I may ask, what bullet weight do you prefer and what kind of velocity/accuracy are you getting?

 

[Johnnu2]

Goldstar, when I was into reloading for my Mini-14 SS Ranch Rifle I learned that getting accuracy out of the Mini was an art form. I have no idea of the new models have conquered the accuracy demos that normally plagued the mini, but I can refer you to a forum that has a mini14 and mini30 forum imbedded in it. I found it to be a great source in all things Mini14: http://www.perfectunion.com/vb/

Hope this is of some help............. J

 

[Goldstar225]

It is! Nice to find a treasure trove of diverse experiences on a single platform.

 

[seabreeze133]

My go to loads for the Mini 14 are:

Mil brass match prepped.
Nosler 60 gr BT varmit or 65 gr SGK
25 Gr H335.
WLR primers

Might start with 24 gr to be safe even though 25 gr has shown no issues in AR's or the Mini 14.

Don