Determining the proper ammo for your rifle

[jn_fsu]

I want to test different ammo/grains to see what works best in my rifle. So far it likes the heavier 62gr more so then any 55gr I've run through it. But all the 55gr ammo I've run is your basic Rem or Fed wally world stuff. The only 62gr I've run is PMC X-TAC (FMJ Steel core).
So here is my thoughts...
I'm thinking of buying some "decient" brand ammo in the 62-75gr range. Shoot it and evaluate the results of each grain. Then buying several different manufactures ammo in the same grain and evaluate them.
Is this a sound approach?
Another concern is wether I should try running some of the higher quality 55gr in the mix?
What do you guys think?
How in the past have you found your optimum ammo/loads?

 

[Elvis]

Re: Determining the proper ammo for your rifle

I usually just buy a box of every different brand and grain I can find and try them all out. Brand can make as much difference as grain depending on the rifle. I've got a TBA .308 that shoots an inch with Federal 168, but Black Hills goes into one hole. My Larue .308 shoots about an inch with the same Black Hills, but Hornady 168 AMax goes into one hole.

Experiment, you won't find out if it really likes a load unless you shoot it. Document the averages as you go, so you don't have to guess about the performance after shooting a lot of different combos.

 

[dlxcupid]

Re: Determining the proper ammo for your rifle

Most people have had luck with Federal Gold Medal Match 77gr and/or Black Hills 77gr. What twist is your barrel? What are the specs on your stick?

 

[jn_fsu]

Re: Determining the proper ammo for your rifle

Specs are 16" BCM SS410 upper/barrel, 1/8 twist, Nato Match Chamber.

 

[GoBig]

Re: Determining the proper ammo for your rifle

Try Hornady Tap 55g or 60g
Also Black Hills in the same weights.

 

[shootist~]

Re: Determining the proper ammo for your rifle

The quality of the bullet matters a lot more than the weight, but be prepared to pay a lot for the premium stuff. For 300 Yds and under IMI M193 shoots very good for a lot less, assuming your rifle is chambered for 5.56 pressure.