180 and 175 grn SMK's

[Winny]

As the title states, I am interested in the 180 and 175 grain SMK's in a .308. I have been reloading for a while and my rifles seem to like the 175 loads I have used. But what is the purpose of the 180's, does anyone use them and favor them over the 175's? I've put my hands on a bout 10 180's a while back, and I saw no real difference when I used them at 600 compared to the 175's. Thanks in advance.

B.

 

[BryanLitz]

Re: 180 and 175 grn SMK's

B,
The boat tail is the big difference.
The 168 and 180 have the same short steep boat tail, and it's bad for base drag reduction and stability. The 175 has a more typical MatchKing boat tail which is better.
You might not notice the difference at short/mid range, but at long range you'll find a definite advantage in favor of the 175's.
Good shooting,
-Bryan

 

[Winny]

Re: 180 and 175 grn SMK's

Thanks!