.219 Zipper Loading Data

.219 Zipper Loading Data

The .219 Zipper Loading Data featured in Handloader Issue #265 – April, 2010 offers a modern reexamination of a classic wildcat cartridge. This issue provides updated handloading tables and performance evaluations, including velocities, bullet weights, and powder pairings for shooters looking to revisit the Zipper with improved components and precision tools.

Load data in this article covers bullet weights generally ranging from 45 to 55 grains, with both flat-nose and spitzer profiles represented. The lighter bullets tend to reach higher muzzle velocities, whereas heavier bullets provide better ballistic coefficient and retained energy at longer ranges. Powders such as H322, Benchmark, and Accurate 2230 are among those tested, chosen for their consistency, clean burn characteristics, and suitability for the Zipper’s case capacity.

Many loads reported in the tables achieve sub-MOA performance at 100 yards when fired in rifles with properly maintained barrels, good chamber alignment, and precise bullet seating. The data also emphasizes consistent case prep, using trimmed and annealed brass, matched primers, and careful seating depth to reduce bullet jump and variance. Even small adjustments in seating depth (on the order of .005") were shown to have measurable effects on accuracy.

Particular importance is placed on balancing velocity and barrel life. The article notes that pushing the Zipper too aggressively can lead to throat erosion and early accuracy degradation. For this reason, many of the featured load recipes fall into the moderate range rather than absolute maximums—identifying loads that deliver excellent performance while avoiding extreme pressure or excessive wear.

This issue also offers chronograph data to help shooters understand both variation between loads and the potential performance limits of their equipment. Using modern powders and quality reloading components, the Loading Data in Handloader #265 helps bridge the gap between historical wildcat experimentation and reliable, repeatable modern performance.

Source: Handloader Issue #265 – April, 2010