Savage Hunter 11FCNS AccuStock .223

[Stoneybroke]

I just purchased a Savage Hunter 11FCNS AccuStock .223, with 1-9" twist. I'm a long time reloader, but have no experience with either the 223 or Savage centerfire rifles. I did own a Savage muzzleloader for some time. The above rifle will be used for paper punching and some predator shooting. I'm thinking that you folks could save me a bunch of time and frustration. Some questions: Best factory loads? Best brass, maybe Lapua? Bullets-the 52-53 grain sierra have worked well in a swift. Do I need to go heavier with the 1-9 twist? Powders: I have IMR 3031, 4895, & 4350 +Varget and RL15. Primers: I have never worked with the small rifle primers. Dies: Lee collet, RCBS full size-or both? For anyone else with the accustock-do I need a torque driver? If so, which one? I guess I need the short course in Savage 101 in the 223. Any and all input would be appreciated. Stoney

[california shooter]

I own a savage 10 in .223 that absolutely loves to shoot Hornady Varmint Express in 55 gr. / most people and books will tell you that a 1:9 twist prefers 60 - 68 grs with a few people even opting for 75 grs.

[rjtfroggy]

I have a Savage 10le 20" barrel and a model 12 26" barrel. I load 63 gr sierras,,& imr 4895.
With this powder I would start at 23gr. and work up .2 gr until I found what it likes.

[Stoneybroke]

Thansks for the info. I just ordered 52, 55, & 65 grain Sierras, together with 100 Lapua cases and a Lee 3 die set. I have a 2.5x10 Leupold LPS and 30mm turn-in rings gathering dust. I'll try to get some turn in bases and primers in the morning. I'm thinking Remington 7&1/2 or CCI BR, whatever I can find. I'm really impressed with the 11fcns rifle. Much better fit and finish than a ML11 that I owned several years back. The accustock is much stiffer, compared to the old synthetic. :)