Topic: .223 Ackley Improved

[Furball]

Hey Guys

Do any of you shoot the .223 Ackley Improved? I just got a new barrel for my Savage 112 and had it reamed out for the AI. I know there are plenty of loads out there in the internet, but wondered if any of you had one and if so what your favorite loads for it. I always like to try someone else's favorites first because most times they will shoot gun in my guns as well, or at least provide a good starting point.

Any and all help is appreciated! And Happy New Year to you all.

Russ

[fj40mojo]

No, but I've been considering the same move with my Howa 1500 .223. It would be nice just to have something different. Let me know what you gain in velocity. What twist is your barrel? I've heard good things about the AI with the heavier .224 bullets but you have to have a 1:8 or faster twist to use them.

[Furball]

I got the 1-14 twist. I have no desire to use bullets any heavier than 50 to 52 grain. With loads available on line, 4000 fps are quite possible with the 40 grain slug. 3700 or so with the 50 grain. This is quite an improvement over the standard .223 and even extends brass life as the case has less taper now. If I were to use a barrel with a 1-8 twist, I would go for a round like the 22-250 Improved where you can get plenty of push for the heavier bullet. My plans for the gun are ground squirrels, rock chucks and prairie dogs. At the ranges that I shoot, I will never need any bullet any heavier than 50 grain or so.