Loading ESP Raptors
ESP Raptor projectiles are generally loaded very similarly to other projectiles, but due to their unique design, require some additional advice. Since the ESP Raptor series projectiles are system projectiles, they can be loaded in a variety of ways. The following instructions will inform you of specific requirements that will ensure you get the best results from these projectiles:
1. Cartridge cases should be trimmed to standard trim length as you would before loading any projectile. Ensure the inside of the case mouth is chamfered a minimum of ¼ of the brass wall thickness, preferably with a VLD (23°) type chamfering tool. If one is not available a standard 45° chamfering tool will suffice.
2. In the absence of a Cutting Edge Projectiles manual, you can use as a guide the load data given by any reputable projectile manufacturer's reloading manual for the same weight projectile for the same cartridge you are reloading. However, the starting charge should be dropped 10% from maximum charges. Charge will then be adjusted using the same technique you would use when developing a load for any other projectile from that point. Note that in the Hollow Point configuration, the projectile will be seated deeper than in the Solid configuration (due to the position of the driving bands), so an increased pressure will result compared to the equivalent charge used in the Solid configuration. Therefore, you should not use maximum loads developed for the Solid configuration in the Hollow Point configuration.
3. This type of projectile is generally loaded with the first band from the nose sticking out of the case mouth for a good starting Cartridge Overall Length (COAL) with or without the tip, as a solid or as a hollow point. If after installing the tip, if one is to be used, the COAL is too long to magazine feed at that position, projectiles can be seated deeper down into the case. Caution should be used to ensure there at least 1½ bands contacting the neck for proper neck tension. If insufficient neck tension is achieved, projectiles in cartridges in the magazines may move rearward in the case due to the effects of recoil. Note that any increase in seating depth will result in an increase in pressure and as such the powder charge may need to be decreased in order to maintain safe pressures.
4. Projectiles can be seated out to a touch point in the lands for more precise projectile location. Bear in mind the touch will be on the first driving band and not on the ogive as with standard projectiles. Blacken the first driving band back from the nose and look for a mark when determining a touch point. Projectiles should then be installed deeper by 0.65mm (0.025") for a good starting seating depth from the touching point.
The recommended procedure for load development is to shoot the projectiles first without the tip installed even if your intention is to shoot them with the tip installed for better long range trajectory. This will conserve the amount of tips used. Generally, the point of impact and flight characteristics are the same with or without the tip to 100 metres. Once an accurate load is developed without the tip, and zero established at a distance of your choice, insert tips and fire a group to check for accuracy and zero. Some fine tuning may be required but often the accuracy and zero point are the same as they were without the tips.
If you have any questions regarding reloading procedures or any other technical matters, please call or email, and we will endeavour to answer your questions.