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256 Winchester Magnum Load Data & Ballistics Calculator

Estimate chamber pressure and muzzle velocity for the 256 Winchester Magnum with the free, in-browser MyLoads internal-ballistics simulator. The figures below are illustrative estimates from a physics model — not a recommended recipe. Always cross-check a current published loading manual.

256 Winchester Magnum reference

Maximum average pressure (MAP)3,500 BAR
Nominal case capacity21.5 gr H₂O
Groove / bullet diameter0.256 in (6.50 mm)

Example simulation illustrative

Bullet
Hornady 0.257 87 gr SP
Powder
Alliant 2400
Charge
10.6 gr
Barrel
24 in

Muzzle velocity

2,068 fps

Peak chamber pressure (interval, ±10% burn-rate)

27,373 – 34,481 – 42,454 psi

nominal is 68% of the 50,763 psi maximum average pressure

Illustrative example — every figure here is an estimate and can be wrong. Always consult a current published loading manual, and never trust these numbers on their own.

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