Understanding CFE 223 Powder
CFE 223, manufactured by Hodgdon, stands out as a spherical, double-base propellant engineered for use in various cartridges, but it excels in the .223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO arena. Its key characteristic is the “Copper Fouling Eraser” (CFE) additive. This unique component helps to reduce copper buildup in your barrel, leading to more consistent accuracy and easier cleaning. This feature alone makes it an attractive choice for reloaders.
The burn rate of CFE 223 is considered to be in the medium-slow range, making it well-suited for heavier bullets in the .223/5.56 platform, including the 62gr options we’re focusing on here. This burn rate provides a good balance between velocity and pressure, resulting in a load that delivers a potent combination of energy and accuracy.
When working with any reloading powder, safety is critical. Always store powders in a cool, dry place away from any sources of ignition. Wear safety glasses during all reloading operations. Keep your work area clean and free of clutter. When dispensing powder, do so over a surface that’s easy to clean. Never mix powders, and always confirm the powder you are using is the one you intended to use. Remember, powder is combustible, and a careless approach can lead to serious injury or damage.
Bullet Choices for the 62gr Weight
The 62gr bullet weight offers a sweet spot for many shooters, providing a balance between trajectory, wind drift, and retained energy. This weight is commonly found in many different bullet types, each with its own unique characteristics.
Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullets are a common and economical choice, typically favored for target practice and plinking. They offer good consistency and penetration.
Hollow Point Boat Tail (HPBT) bullets are designed for more controlled expansion upon impact. They often provide greater accuracy due to their boat tail design. These are suitable for hunting or self-defense.
Soft Point (SP) bullets are another hunting option designed to expand upon impact. They may offer a balance between penetration and expansion.
Bullet manufacturers, such as Sierra, Hornady, Nosler, and Speer, each produce a variety of 62gr bullets. Each manufacturer’s bullets may have subtle differences in construction and performance, so it’s essential to consult their specific load data for the best results.
Consider the Ballistic Coefficient (BC) of your chosen bullet. BC is a measure of a bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance. A higher BC generally means better long-range performance and less wind drift. Also, consider the intended purpose of your load. Is it for target shooting, varmint hunting, or self-defense? Different bullets are designed to perform best in different scenarios.
Navigating Load Data for CFE 223 and 62gr Bullets
IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING! Before proceeding, please understand that the load data presented here is for informational purposes only. ALWAYS refer to a current and reputable reloading manual for verified load data. Reloading manuals contain critical information, including starting loads, maximum loads, and warnings about potential hazards. Never exceed the maximum loads specified in your manual. Always start with the minimum recommended charge and gradually increase the powder charge while carefully observing for pressure signs.
Load data tables will generally provide the following information.
The first element is the Cartridge. This would specify the round you are reloading for. For example .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO.
The next is the Powder. This confirms which powder is being used to generate the load. In this instance, CFE 223.
The Bullet Weight is the weight of the bullet in grains. For this application, it will be 62 grains.
The Bullet Type is the type of bullet, such as FMJ, HPBT, or SP. The type is determined by the construction.
The Primer is a recommendation to use a small rifle primer, or specific primers.
The Case can also be a recommendation, brass should be of good quality, and should be the correct length.
The Starting Load will be the minimum recommended charge of powder, this is designed to be a low-pressure test.
The Maximum Load will be the highest charge you can load safely with this powder.
Important Notes will include the Overall Length (OAL) of the loaded round and other factors that must be considered.
To work up a load safely, begin with the starting load specified in your manual. Load a small number of rounds and fire them at a target. Observe the cases for signs of excessive pressure (see the Pressure Signs and Troubleshooting section). If there are no signs of excessive pressure, and accuracy is acceptable, increase the powder charge by small increments (e.g., 0.3-0.5 grains), and repeat the process. Continue this iterative process, firing each load, and observing for pressure signs until you reach the maximum load or find the load that delivers the best accuracy. Always pay attention to the groups to determine the best accuracy. Be patient; it can take several trips to the range to find the perfect load.
Essential Tools and Equipment
To reload safely and effectively, you’ll need a set of dedicated tools and equipment.
A Reloading Press is the heart of the reloading process. It provides the leverage needed to size cases, seat bullets, and perform other operations.
Dies are crucial. You’ll need a set of dies designed for the .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, typically including a sizing die, a seating die, and often a crimping die.
A Digital Scale is critical for accurate powder measurement. Precise powder charges are essential for safety and consistent performance.
A Powder Measure helps to consistently dispense the correct amount of powder.
A Case Trimmer is needed to ensure that your cases are trimmed to the correct length.
Primer Pocket Cleaners are important for preparing cases for priming.
Case Lube is important to lubricate the cases during the sizing operation.
Calipers are used to measure the dimensions of your cases and loaded rounds.
Beyond the tools, safety gear is essential. Always wear Safety Glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The reloading process involves several steps, each critical to the safety and quality of the finished ammunition.
Start with Case Preparation, including cleaning the cases. This can be done in a tumbler to remove dirt and debris. Then, size and deprime the cases using the sizing die in your reloading press. Next, trim the cases to the correct length. Clean the primer pockets. Finally, chamfer and deburr the case mouths to facilitate bullet seating.
Priming requires the insertion of a new primer into the primer pocket.
Next is Powder Charging. Use your powder measure to carefully dispense the appropriate charge of CFE 223 into each case. Double-check each powder charge with your scale to ensure accuracy.
Bullet Seating is the next step. Seat the bullets to the correct depth using your seating die. If crimping is desired, perform this step according to your die set’s instructions.
Finally, Inspection and Quality Control are crucial. Inspect each loaded round for proper seating depth, crimp (if applicable), and overall appearance. Ensure that the powder charge is correct.
Understanding Pressure Signs and Troubleshooting
Recognizing pressure signs is essential for safe reloading. High pressure can damage your firearm and cause serious injury.
Flattened Primers: Primers that are noticeably flattened against the case head can indicate excessive pressure.
Cratered Primers: A crater around the firing pin indentation is another warning sign.
Stiff Bolt Lift: If the bolt becomes difficult to open after firing, this can indicate high pressure.
Case Head Expansion: Measure the base of the case before and after firing. Significant expansion can indicate excessive pressure.
Ejector Marks: These are marks on the case head left by the ejector.
If you experience any of these pressure signs, immediately reduce your powder charge and consult your reloading manual.
If Inconsistent Velocities are seen, make sure to double-check the powder measure, scale, and seating depth.
Poor Accuracy may require adjusting the powder charge, bullet, seating depth, or primer.
Failure to Feed/Eject can be caused by the overall length of the round. Make adjustments to the OAL.
Optimizing Accuracy and Performance
Several factors influence the accuracy of your reloaded ammunition.
Powder Charge: Finding the “sweet spot” with the correct powder charge is vital.
Bullet Selection: Experiment with different bullet types and weights to find what performs best in your rifle.
Seating Depth: Adjusting the bullet seating depth can fine-tune accuracy.
Primer Selection: Experimenting with different primer types can impact performance.
Case Preparation: Meticulous case preparation is essential for consistent results.
To improve accuracy, fire groups from a stable shooting position. Keep a detailed log of your reloading data, noting the powder charge, bullet type, primer, seating depth, and any other relevant factors. This will allow you to identify patterns and optimize your loads.
Where to Find More Information
Reliable reloading manuals are your most important resource. Hodgdon, Hornady, Sierra, and Speer all publish excellent manuals with detailed load data.
Online resources and forums can provide valuable information and insights. However, always verify information found online with data from a reputable reloading manual. Be cautious of unsubstantiated claims or advice.
Conclusion
Reloading ammunition can provide great rewards. By understanding CFE 223 load data for 62gr bullets, you can create custom loads that enhance the accuracy and performance of your firearms. Remember that safety should always be your primary concern. Approach the reloading process with diligence and a commitment to following established guidelines. This is your guide. Experimenting with different loads allows for a greater appreciation for the process. Enjoy the journey, and safe shooting!
