Hot fun in the summertime

[El Chivo]

I have been working on a hunting load, and got my best group at 32 gr H4895, one grain under the maximum. My best guess for the pressure, by looking at a load with a different brand of bullet, is 35,000 CUP. I tested this in 85 degree weather.

It got me thinking about summer temps. I may be using this load in 100+ degrees. If I did, I'm thinking the pressure increase might put me over the top. I read that H4895 is pretty stable in different temperatures, but it's something to think about.

Does anybody tailor their loads for summer? Any observations about performance changing noticeably in the heat?

[Marc]

I always test my hunting loads in hot weather since we hunt in hot weather. It does depend on how close to the edge you are loading though. My wife uses a moderate load in her rifle since she doesn't shoot very far. I use max loads in my 264 WM since the only reason for its existence is to drop that buck that is way off across the canyon. It is also a temperamental rifle and pressures jump quickly so all load workup is done in 90-100 degree weather.

[meanc]

Does anybody tailor their loads for summer? Any observations about performance changing noticeably in the heat?

No, I do just one load for all but 2 of my levers.

I sight in during the winter time right before hunting season, then I resight them again when it starts getting warm.

Makes things a whole lot easier.

As far as accuracy goes, I haven't had any noticeable variances.

[jdad]

I have found that W748 (30-30 loads) is extremely temperature sensitive. Winter time velocities are about 100fps less than Summer.

The least temperature sensitive powder I have found is the Vita Vhouri's, but they are a bit more expensive.