Re: looking for a target/hunting bullet
178 Amax should still be pushing a bit over 1000 ft lbs at 700Y( at least up at 5000ft). The Berger VLD may be a plus on the BC, but the Amax is not as sensitive with regard to seating depth. In short, the Amax shoots consistent groups even when seated at mag length.
I have rolled both the VLD and Amax, and went with the 178 Amax as my all around, do all bullet. Plus at $20 less a box, the value is hard to beat.