Reloading different bullets of same weight.

[DMan]

So, question for all you experts! I have found the ideal load for my rifle using a 30-06 with 165 grain Sierra GameKing bullets. I know different manufactures and different bullets have different characteristics, but if I duplicate the entire load with the exception of the bullet itself, replacing the bullet with a different brand, but the same weight, will this allow me to just refine the charge (couple tenths of a grain on either side) to find the best load for that round?

Or will I need to start the whole process over again to find my ideal load.

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[bmcgilvray]

You'll effectively have to start over. Some good rifles will shoot different brands similarly. Never count on it though and if your pet load is near maximum you'll need to work up to it anyway.

[Ram Rod]

Different bullets even with the same grain weight may have different characteristics...mainly the ogive of the bullet and it's location in the assembled cartridge in relationship to the rifling once chambered. If you're backing the bullet off the rifling at .006" with one manufacturer's bullet, another manufacturer's bullet may very well touch the lands or come within .002" then pressure builds. You should start new loads for different brand bullets.