I'm shooting a 2323AI with the 1 in 8 twist barrel. My son has a 1 in 9 twist 223 Rem and his rifle handles the 75 gr A-Max very well. The VLD probably won't stabilize well in the 1/9 twist so stick with the A-Max. I get very good accuracy with the 52 gr SMK in the 1/8 twist AI so it should do well in your rifle.Originally Posted by dukeflr
Due to the straight walled case of the AI, pressure signs don't show up until a load is considerebly above what is the norm. I back off when I start getting sticky bolt lift. Your idea of starting just below the max 223 Rem load is the same procedure I use. My AI is a bench rifle so I work up loads 1/10th grain at a time but there's nothing wrong with using 2/10th grain. Once you get an accurate load, play with the seating depth to see if groups will tighten up. Some of my accurate loads are jammed .020".
My brass choice is strictly commercial, ie, Lapua, Winchester and RP in that order. Military crimped brass I reserve for my M4gery. I use a lot of Varget and H4895 in my loads. I've tried RL-15 with good results but being a temperature sensitive powder, it would be wise to work up your loads in warmer weather to preclude any problems. I'm loading the 52gr SMK, 69 gr SMK, 70 and 75 gr Berger VLD and 75 gr A-Max along with the 80 gr SMK and VLD. I love the 223 AI, so easy to form brass.
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