.218 Mashburn Bee (Load Development)

.218 Mashburn Bee (Load Development)

The .218 Mashburn Bee is an improved variant of the classic .218 Bee cartridge, developed to provide enhanced velocity, flatter trajectory, and better performance without overly increasing recoil or component stress. “Load Development” work with the Mashburn variant focuses on optimizing bullet and powder combinations, case prep, seating depth, and consistent ignition to extract the maximum accuracy and performance from each rifle.

In load development trials, handloaders typically begin with moderate powders that offer clean burning and stable pressure curves. Powders such as H-4227, IMR-4227, Alliant Reloder 7, and Benchmark are frequently tested. Bullet weights in these tests often range from 40 to 55 grains. Lighter bullets in that range tend to achieve higher velocities but may sacrifice wind resistance; heavier bullets provide more retained energy and stability downrange. Both ends of the range are tested to find the best fit for a particular rifle’s twist rate, barrel length, and chamber finish.

Critical to Mashburn Bee load development are case forming and brass consistency. Wildcat cases are fireformed from .218 Bee brass, usually requiring annealing after several loadings to maintain uniform neck tension and prevent splitting. Seating depth is also emphasized, as altering seating length by even 0.005-inch can affect accuracy noticeably in tests. Primer choice—whether standard small-rifle or small-rifle magnum—is also explored for its effect on ignition consistency and velocity spread, especially in cooler weather.

During experimentation, some handloaders have noted standout results: for example, a 50-grain hollow-point or varmint bullet over a measured charge of Benchmark might achieve velocities near those of hotter .218 Bee loads, but with reduced muzzle blast and snappier recoil. Group sizes under 1.25 inches at 100 yards are reported in rifles with good barrels and free-float stocks, with velocities more consistent across different lots of brass and bullets after tuning.

Fouling, throat erosion, and barrel heating are noted as challenges when pushing the Mashburn variant. To manage this, careful cleaning after every 20-25 rounds is often prescribed, along with periodic inspection of the throat area. That said, when done properly, load development reveals that the Mashburn Bee can offer a remarkable balance of performance and longevity.

Source: Wolfe Publishing