How much bullet bearing surface in the case mouth is needed?

[Dennis]

I have had the best luck with VLD's .010 in the lands or a few thousandths more. I have shot several .001 4 shot groups with the Bergers. Also have the best luck with RL17!

Dennis

[FW Conch]

You might try the 140grn Nosler Accubonds. They have a lot of copper in them, so they are longer than other bullets of the same weight. Also, they have a very blunt Ogive, relative to the Bergers, keeping them from going as far up into the throat. These two things together may help you get closer to the lands and have more bullet in the case neck.

But, as mentioned above, you can't chase the lands with a particular bullet if the barrel won't allow it. But that's OK. I have a 30/06 that shoots very good groups with a .160" jump tp the lands. As already suggested, load those Bergers .264" into the case neck, and see how they shoot. You can always fine tune the load with the powder. Then you will at least know the best you can get out of the Bergers.

Good Luck-Good Shooting.........Jim