Replicating a factory load

[GetWestern]

Hey guys just started up some handloads for my 300 win mag last week, took a assortment of loads to the range and none of them grouped well. While there my buddy suggested I try a factory box of 190 gr barnes vor-tx lr. With nothing to lose I shot my first group it came out under a inch followed up by another group that was half moa. These are the best groups I've ever got out of this rifle so far and I'd like to replicate this load as close as I can. The problem is I cant find any reloading data for this particular bullet, barnes doesn't have this bullet in their reloading manual either so I have no idea where to begin other than the bullet. No clue what the powder charge is or the seating depth ect. How would you guys go about trying to replicate this load or if you would at all? I'm a new reloader so all this is new to me so any input and advice is appreciated if I left out any crucial info let me know. Also would like to hear some reviews on this particular bullet to if anyone has any thanks.

 

[BRTreedogs]

I would ask what charge others are using with that bullet, including whatever I could find online.
Back off 2 grains and work back up in .5 grn increments.
Personally I haven't found that the brand of powder has mattered so much as the bullet your rifle likes.

 

[Axlrod]

Email or call Barnes for starting load data on their bullets.
You can measure the seating depth of a factory load or just use the factory load to set your seating die.
Use a chronograph on the factory load and then try to work your handload up to that vel.- watching for pressure signs.

 

[RoJo]

Email or call Barnes for starting load data on their bullets.

^^^ This. I have contacted them before for load data for a bullet that was not in the manual or online load data.

 

[GetWestern]

Appreciate the input guys

 

[Sawfish]

Reloading data is on the Barnes website.

 

[TreyPound]

The commercial ammo companies often use powders not available to us as reloaders - so breaking a round open won't help you. You should find that your loads are more consistent than a given factory load anyway - so like other response, work up your own best load for a specific rifle.

 

[Lazzwarbird]

Good info!