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Eagle27...I wouldn't call my friend an experienced reloader, he's only been doing it for a short time. He's not one for the computer either, so when he has a question, or hits the wall, he asks me. When he asked me about the 416 loads initially, I looked at the 416 RM data in the loading manual, seeing the case capacity is only slightly more than that of the Ruger. It listed a start load of 76gn 2208 & a max load of 82gn 2208 behind a 350gn bullet. I suggested he start at 75gn & go from there...which is what you suggested!
I think he was after something more concrete, because I could tell in our conversations that he wasn't too confident, hence contacting ADI & asking the question here.
Thanks for the replies.
Cheers

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Fair enough, although anyone who is reloading for a big bore and has a good accurate load with a 400gr bullet must have some experience to get that far. Even for an experienced reloader, meaning one who has loaded for a range of cartridges using a selection of powders and bullets, likely made and loaded his own cast bullets, annealed cases etc., etc., when starting out with a cartridge they haven't loaded before especially one not listed in reloading manuals, just has to do a bit of research and start with what is available.

However many reloaders do like to check manuals and other sources to try and get specific data for the components they intend using or even to confirm that the load they have developed is in the realms of reason. The problem that can happen, and it features often enough in discussions on various forums, is that load data from a range of manuals is usually all over the place even for common cartridges. Maximum loads given in one reloading manual can often be starting loads or near enough to it, in other manuals. Older manuals from the same bullet or powder manufacturer are usually far less conservative than the later editions. It all gets confusing and then they come on here wanting answers as to why the manuals are different.

A chronograph is a good investment, easy to use, and answers a lot of questions.

Your friend will be close on the money starting with a couple of grains more powder as has been suggested similarly if he had a load for the 350gr bullet, a couple of grains less would have given him a good load with a 400gr bullet. Won't be long and he will be confident.

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