Quick Answer
Yes, you can reload 130gr bullets for .270 Winchester effectively, but it requires careful attention to case sizing, primer seating, and bullet seating depth to maintain the cartridge's performance and accuracy.
Choosing the Right 130gr Bullet
When reloading 130gr bullets for .270 Winchester, look for bullets with a diameter of 0.277 inches and a length that is within 0.020 inches of the cartridge’s maximum overall length (MOL). The Hornady SST and Nosler Ballistic Tip are popular choices for 130gr .270 Winchester bullets. These bullets offer high ballistic coefficients and are designed for hunting medium-sized game.
Reloading Considerations
When reloading 130gr bullets, it’s essential to case size carefully to ensure the case neck is not over- or under-sized. A .002 inch over-sized case neck can lead to case head separation during firing, while an under-sized case neck can result in poor bullet seating and accuracy. For optimal results, use a case gauge to check the case neck size and a bullet seater die to ensure precise bullet seating. A bullet seating depth of 0.020-0.030 inches below the cartridge’s chamber will provide optimal performance and accuracy.
Load Development
For a 130gr .270 Winchester load, start with a base load of 48-50 grains of IMR 7828 or IMR 8133 powder. This will provide a safe starting point for load development. Use a chronograph to measure the bullet’s velocity and adjust the load accordingly. Aim for a velocity of 3000-3100 feet per second for optimal performance and accuracy.
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