Re: 168 Mtchking BTHP
Nothing wrong with the 168 SMK's
First thing, you should go to the library and get the book, ABC's of reloading and thumb through it. It will explain things like powders, burn rates, brass, OAL, COAL, seating depth, and most important pressure
Now here is a burn chart, so you can see why there are so many powders.
http://www.hodgdon.com/burn-rate.html
If you pick up the Hodgdons reloading annual magazine, it has a description of each powder(hodgdons) and what calibers they are designed for.
A good all around target and hunting powder for the 308 is Varget (varmint/target=varget) It is a Extreme extruded powder, and in short is tolerant of temperature changes, ignites well, and usually yields more velocity compared to similar burn rate powders.
As for primers, find one you like and stick with it. Some go CCI, others WLR. I use WLR for large rifle and CCI for small. Now I wouldnt get in to Federal match or CCI BR-2 primers until you have loaded some decent ammo first.
Brass, the federal you will be reloading is quite soft, you may get about 3 or more loads before the primer pockets get loose. Some like Winny brass, I stuck with RP brass. Lapua is nice, but again, walk before you run.
While you are at it, get a caliper, this is one of the most important tools besides a scale.
Laslty read through the OCW loading guide, this technique will save you lots of headaches and powder.
http://optimalchargeweight.embarqspace.com/
good luck, and always ask questions, be safe