It seems that very few people these days load and shoot the .25-25 Stevens. I recently joined the ranks with acquisition of the Stevens model 44 discussed here:
(You need to Login or Register to view media files and links) I posted some initial loading tests in that thread. But rather than muddy the waters, I thought it a good idea to start a discussion here in the reloading forum focusing on loading and shooting it. This should make it easier for others to find this discussion in a future search.
To recap and kick it off, here are my first loads:
I tested a few loads, all with the same 72.5gr, 30-1 plain base bullet from an Arsenal mold and CCI 450 primers.
16.0gr of Blackhorn 209 - 1846fps avg.
22.0gr of APP 2F - 1932fps avg.
Duplex load 2.3gr if 2400 under 22.0gr Schuetzen 2F - 1645fps avg.
A single round of 11.0gr of Reloader 7 - 1556fps.
I think this bullet is too soft and light, but its all I had. I have since ordered some 85gr bullets from the Bullshop to try out. I'm using old UMC brass, but also ordered 40 pieces of brass from RMC. To my surprise, they had it on the shelf ready to ship
More to follow!