I got to take the new stevens .243 out today for the first time. Zeroed at 100 with some factory hornady 100gr light mags. Then I switched to the first handloads that I have had the opportunity to try. 55gr noslers with H414. Nosler says max load of 52.5 gr while hodgdon says max of 50.0gr. At 51.5gr I started to see pressure signs. I was hoping to push them a little harder, but I guess thats as far as I can go with this load. All loads previous shot reasonably well, but was getting frustrated with the sporter barrel heating up after every three shots.

Gunna finish finding a good pdog load with the 243 then I guess Ill switch to the swift barrel which should add a little more fun.

Any suggestions for the 55gr bullets? I know it's hit and miss.