Reloading Bench Time: .308 Load Workup Progress

[RangeHot]

I'm currently working on a new load for my .308 using Varget powder and 178 grain A-MAX bullets. So far, I've managed to get through some initial test loads and I'm excited about the results. Anyone else working on .308 loads? Would love to compare notes and see your load data.

 

[Robin1]

That's a good load choice with Varget and 178 A-MAX. I've done some .308 load work myself, what brass and primer are you running?

 

[Gabe]

I developed a .308 load with Varget and 178 gr A-MAXs last season, ladder-tested charges, recorded velocities on a chronograph, found a sweet spot at medium charge, and consistently shot 0.8–1.0 MOA groups at 100 yards

 

[Rogue_soldier]

Good to see some Varget love! It's the best powder for .308 if you want consistency in hot and cold weather.

 

[Donnie]

Here's the biggest tip I can give you for that combo: Don't chase speed. That 178gr bullet is long and heavy. Trying to push it too fast with Varget will spike your pressures real quick because it's a fast-burning stick powder

 

[Tabby]

Good to see some Varget love! It's the best powder for .308 if you want consistency in hot and cold weather.

Varget is OK, but not as accurate as IMR4320 was before it was discontinued. I spent many hours loading different powers and charges trying to duplicate my IMR 4320 match and hunting ammo. I tried other IMR powders, Accurate powders, Hodgdon and Winchester powders. In the end it was IMR 4895 that came the closest with 0.8 MOA groups. The IMR 4320 would consistently group 0.5 and 0.6 MOA with Nosler 165 Partitions for hunting and Nosler 168 competition bullets. Does anyone know of a direct replacement for IMR 4320?

 

[critterpicker]

I'm using 168 Sierria MK ,Lapua brass, Fed 210 primers,TAC powder. The group shown is 15 rounds at 100 yards.

 

[Tabby]

That is a fantastic group but you need to adjust your sights a tiny bit. I've also had very good luck with Sierra 168 Match King and Game King bullets. They are my second choice behind Noslers.

 

[critterpicker]

Thanks! I had just got the scope back from manufacturer and was going to chronograph some loads. They were in the black so I couldn't see where they were impacting. It's been adjusted now.