Krag Collectors Association Forum

Hello,
I haven't been on this site for quite some time but I recently acquired another 1898 US Krag cut-down carbine. It was manufactured in 1898 (s/n 92XXX), 1898 on the cartouche, has a 1902 rear sight, and 1903 front sight base. I have had some success w/ IMR-4895 with 168 grain Hornady AMAX bullets (<2moa; 100yds w/open sights) but I wanted to try a slower powder. The slowest one I have is RL-17. Seems a lot of folks have good results with a slower burning powder so I wanted to try IMR 4350. My LGS did not have it in stock; but they did have AA 4350. I picked up a pound. I'm reading the powders are nearly identical in burn rate and the same charge weights can be used. My question is if anyone has tried AA 4350 in the 30/40 Krag with say 180 grain bullets and what kind of results did you get. I appreciate your input. Thanks.

I've been using IMR-4350 for decades, but with a 220 gr Hornady RN bullet... with absolutely GREAT results (40.0 grains IMR-4350 and CCI-250 or CCI #34 primer). This is my ammo for match shooting at 200 yards. Being that IMR 4350 has become scarce, I recently purchased a pound of AA-4350, but haven't used it yet. However, As you said, the burn rates are nearly identical and it should translate ok. Start out on the low side and build up... just to make sure you have no indications of excessive pressure (flattened primers).

FWIW... 8 years ago, I went from IMR-4895 to H-4895 for my 30-06 M2 Ball rounds with no noticeable change in pressure or performance, and I've used H ever since.

I like H4895! I use it in my 1884 Trapdoor with 405gr powder coated lead bullets. Matches issue ammunition with no pressure signs…

Paul,

What O.A.L. are you using with your 220gr RN bullets? There's such a variation of O.A.L.s used for different weights. I set mine at the recommended 3.080 " which fits the chamber well for the Krag rifle I shoot the most.

Thanks.

I'll have to go measure one, but I can tell you that it's seated to the cannelure. Now, I neck size only, and I don't trim my cases often because it's not necessary since the Krag headspaces on the rim and they have a very generous chamber! Still, my OAL is well within the dimensions of the mag well and feed smooth as silk!