SKS, Harris CB, and IMR 7383 v. RL-7

Maven

Well-Known Member
To combat the onset of cabin fever (came early this year), I went to our range the other day for a bit of plinking with my [Type 56] SKS. I use a C.E. Harris designed, NOE produced ~160gr. CB with a GC. However, I couldn't help but notice how differently the rifle ejected the brass with 20gr. RL-7 v. 22.7gr. IMR 7383 (with a Win. LR mag. primer)*. The former tossed the empties at least 12' ahead of me, while the latter practically dropped them at my feet, i.e., within 6'. As I still have ~1/2 lb. of 7383, I think I'll relegate it to the SKS exclusively as it is quite accurate, if not fast (~1,600fps).

*mildly compressed load
 

Ian

Notorious member
18 grains of RX-7 gives about 1800 fps from a 170-grain bullet in my .30-30, maybe you should try backing down the load until the ejection pattern is what you like. RX-7 is nearly the opposite end of the burn spectrum from 7383. RX-7 is very consistent at low density and low pressure, so I wouldn't rule it out for medium-velocity loads that still function the rifle.
 

Maven

Well-Known Member
Given the suborbital ejection with 20gr. RL-7, I will indeed reduce the load to 17.0gr. Thanks, Ian!