Safety First: Your Reloading Checklist
Reloading should always be approached with a mindset of caution and respect for the inherent dangers involved. This checklist is not exhaustive, but it is a crucial foundation for safe reloading.
Eye Protection is Non-Negotiable: Always wear safety glasses with side shields throughout the entire reloading process. This protects your eyes from stray particles and potential hazards.
Ventilation Matters: Reload in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to fumes from primers and powders. A dedicated reloading room with proper ventilation is ideal.
Accurate Measurement is Key: Invest in a high-quality digital scale and use precise measuring tools. Double-check all measurements to avoid errors.
Respect Maximum Loads: Never exceed the maximum load data specified by powder manufacturers and reloading manuals. Overcharging can lead to dangerous pressures.
Start Low and Go Slow: Always begin with the starting load listed in your chosen load data and gradually increase the powder charge, monitoring for pressure signs.
Inspect Your Brass: Thoroughly examine brass casings before reloading. Discard any casings that show signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, or bulges.
Primer and Component Compatibility: Use the correct primers, powders, bullets, and cases designed for the 26 Nosler. Don’t substitute components without careful research and verification.
Follow the Instructions: Adhere to all instructions provided by the powder manufacturer, bullet manufacturer, and reloading manual. These are your best resources for safe practices.
Powder Mixing is a Deadly Mistake: Never, ever mix powders. Each powder has a different burn rate and characteristics. Mixing them can lead to unpredictable and dangerous results.
Pressure Signs: Know the Warning Signals: Be vigilant for pressure signs such as flattened primers, cratering (primer showing a raised ridge at the firing pin imprint), ejector marks on the case head, or difficult bolt lift. Stop immediately if you observe any of these signs.
Double-Check Everything: Before you proceed with any reloading step, double-check all measurements, components, and settings.
Continuous Learning: Reloading is an ongoing process of learning. Consider taking a certified reloading course, reading additional reloading resources, and consulting with experienced reloaders.
Assembling Your Arsenal: Components for the 26 Nosler
The quality of your components directly impacts the performance of your 26 Nosler loads. Choosing the right components is a critical step.
Brass: The Foundation of Accuracy: Selecting high-quality brass is an investment in both accuracy and case life. It should be made from consistent alloys and manufactured to tight tolerances. Reputable brass manufacturers like Nosler and Peterson Cartridge are excellent options. Before reloading, brass preparation is essential. This includes cleaning, trimming to the correct length, chamfering the case mouth, and deburring the flash hole.
Primers: The Spark That Ignites the Charge: The primer provides the initial spark to ignite the powder charge. Large rifle magnum primers are typically recommended for the 26 Nosler. These are designed to reliably ignite the relatively slow-burning powders often used with this cartridge. Consistency in primer ignition is crucial for accuracy. Brands like Federal, CCI, and Winchester are reputable options.
Powder: The Driving Force: Powder selection is critical for maximizing velocity and accuracy in the 26 Nosler. Different powders have different burn rates, influencing pressure curves and performance. Some powders that have proven successful in the 26 Nosler are Reloder 26, Hodgdon H1000, and Retumbo. Research and consult reliable load data to find the powder that best suits your intended bullet weight and desired performance characteristics. Always verify load data with the powder manufacturer.
Bullets: Reaching the Target: The bullet is the projectile that carries your energy and accuracy to the target. 26 Nosler shooters often utilize bullets in the 120-140 grain range, though lighter and heavier bullets can be effectively loaded as well. Many high-quality bullets are produced, and there is a good reason for the popularity of brands like Berger, Hornady, and Sierra. Consider your intended use when selecting a bullet. Hunting bullets are designed for controlled expansion and penetration, while target bullets prioritize accuracy.
Reloading Equipment: The Tools of the Trade: To reload safely and effectively, you’ll need the right equipment. This includes a robust reloading press, a set of full-length sizing and seating dies specifically designed for the 26 Nosler, a precise digital scale for measuring powder charges, a powder measure to dispense powder, a case trimmer, and calipers to accurately measure cartridge dimensions. Invest in quality equipment to ensure precision and longevity.
26 Nosler Load Data: The Heart of the Matter
This section provides general data for creating safe and effective loads for the 26 Nosler. It is crucial to emphasize again: This is a guideline only. Always consult the current load data provided by your chosen powder and bullet manufacturers, as well as reputable reloading manuals before reloading, to ensure you are using the most up-to-date information and following safe practices. Remember to always work up your loads gradually and carefully.
This guide offers load data by bullet weight, as this is the most common way to organize load data.
130 Grain Bullets
Bullet Brand and Type: Berger 130 grain Elite Hunter
Powder Type: Reloder 26
Starting Load: 67.0 grains
Maximum Load: 71.0 grains
Primer Type: Federal 215
Case Type: Nosler
Overall Cartridge Length (OAL): 3.300 inches
Estimated Velocity Range: 3000-3150 fps
Notes: Reloder 26 consistently delivers excellent accuracy with this bullet weight. Start low and monitor carefully.
140 Grain Bullets
Bullet Brand and Type: Hornady 140 grain ELD-M
Powder Type: H1000
Starting Load: 65.0 grains
Maximum Load: 69.0 grains
Primer Type: CCI 250
Case Type: Nosler
Overall Cartridge Length (OAL): 3.340 inches
Estimated Velocity Range: 2850-3000 fps
Notes: This combination provides excellent downrange performance, but, as always, begin at the starting load and monitor for pressure signs.
147 Grain Bullets
Bullet Brand and Type: Berger 147 grain Long Range Hybrid Target
Powder Type: Retumbo
Starting Load: 70.0 grains
Maximum Load: 74.0 grains
Primer Type: Federal 215
Case Type: Nosler
Overall Cartridge Length (OAL): 3.370 inches
Estimated Velocity Range: 2900-3050 fps
Notes: This combination provides excellent downrange performance with a high ballistic coefficient bullet. Start low and monitor carefully.
Barrel Length Matters: Velocity estimates are approximate and will vary based on barrel length. Longer barrels typically yield higher velocities.
Individual Rifles Vary: The ideal load for your rifle may differ slightly from the data provided.
Reloading Manuals: This data is meant to get you started and is not a comprehensive data set. Always consult several reloading manuals for additional powder and bullet options and cross-reference your data.
Always Consult Manufacturers: Powder, bullet, and case manufacturers will provide the most current and accurate load data.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
This section outlines the general reloading process.
Case Preparation
Begin by thoroughly cleaning your brass cases. Then, size the cases in a full-length sizing die to bring them back to the correct dimensions. After sizing, trim the cases to the specified length for the 26 Nosler. Chamfer and deburr the case mouth to facilitate easy bullet seating.
Priming
Insert the appropriate primer into the primer pocket. This can be done manually or with a priming tool that’s part of your reloading press. Ensure the primer is fully seated.
Powder Charging
Carefully measure the correct amount of powder using your digital scale and powder measure. Dispense the measured powder into the case. Avoid spilling powder and ensure a consistent powder charge.
Bullet Seating
Seat the bullet to the specified overall cartridge length (OAL) using your seating die. The OAL is critical for both accuracy and safety. Ensure you are consistent in your seating depth for consistent performance.
Inspection
Before firing, visually inspect each loaded round. Look for any defects, such as improperly seated primers, excessive crimping, or other issues.
Refining Your Loads: Load Development
Load development is the art and science of fine-tuning your reloads for optimal performance.
Start at the Beginning: Always start with the starting load listed in your chosen reloading manual or published data.
Gradual Increments: Increase the powder charge in small increments (e.g., 0.5 grains). This allows you to carefully monitor for pressure signs.
Watch for Pressure Signs: Carefully observe your fired cases and rifle for signs of excessive pressure. Stop immediately if you see any concerning signs.
Record Everything: Keep detailed records of each load you develop. This includes the powder charge, bullet weight, primer type, case type, OAL, velocity, group size, and any observed pressure signs.
Group Shooting: Shoot multiple, 3-5 shot groups at each powder charge to gauge accuracy.
Velocity Testing: Use a chronograph to measure the velocity of each load.
Finding the Sweet Spot: Once you find a load that consistently delivers tight groups and acceptable velocity, you’ve found your sweet spot.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful preparation, issues can arise.
Pressure Issues: Be vigilant for signs of excessive pressure. If you experience them, stop immediately and consult with an experienced reloader.
Accuracy Problems: Inconsistent powder charges, improper bullet seating depth, and loose scope mounts can all affect accuracy. Carefully check all components and settings.
Velocity Fluctuations: Temperature, powder lot variation, and inconsistent powder charges can all cause velocity fluctuations.
Case Life: Properly preparing your brass and using appropriate load data can significantly extend case life.
Conclusion: Embracing the Art of Reloading
Reloading for the 26 Nosler is more than just a way to save money; it’s a pathway to precision and control. Through careful component selection, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to safety, you can unlock the full potential of this exceptional cartridge. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to crafting your own custom loads, achieving unparalleled accuracy, and enjoying the rewards of reloading.
This journey is one of continuous learning. Embrace the process, seek advice from experienced reloaders, and never stop honing your skills.
Disclaimer (Repeated for Emphasis): Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous and carries significant risks. The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for proper training and the use of safe reloading practices. The author is not responsible for any damages, injuries, or deaths resulting from the use of this information. Always consult the latest load data from the powder and bullet manufacturers.
Call to Action
Reloading is a journey. The journey begins with a single load. Explore reloading manuals, online forums, and join your local gun club. Share your experiences and findings with others. Reloading will become more than a hobby; it becomes a pursuit of excellence, a dedication to accuracy, and a reward to the shooter who seeks to customize their loads.
