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Do these numbers sound about right? 178gr A-Max

Thor2j

Kriger
Full Member
Minuteman
Jan 21, 2012
364
20
CO
I did some testing today and just seeing if these numbers sound about right.
DPMS 308LR 24"
Temp 84 degrees, 10kt tailwind, sea level
All 2.80" 178gr A-Max over Varget with CCI primers and 3X fired Lapua brass
All these loads shot sub MOA. When I lightened up 41-42.5 they weren't as tight. No pressure signs on any loads.
I'm trying to work data up to go 1000 yds.


<span style="text-decoration: underline">43.2gr</span>
2602
2613
2588
2622
2625
2630

<span style="text-decoration: underline">43.5gr</span>
2612
2633
2642
2641
2623
2642
2615

<span style="text-decoration: underline">43.7gr</span>
2644
2662
2681
2683
2651
2601
2660
<span style="text-decoration: underline">
44.0gr</span>
2671
2673
2682
2715
2730
2710
2728
<span style="text-decoration: underline">
44.5gr</span>
2705
2725
2728
2733
2703
2726
 
Re: Do these numbers sound about right? 178gr A-Max

Its hard to say its "correct" seeing as these numbers vary with each rifle, but you are in the ball park. I get lower numbers because of my 26" tube so its taking me a little more to get in the 2650's and 2700's but you seem to be doing good. Just be sure to watch for pressure signs.
 
Re: Do these numbers sound about right? 178gr A-Max

Thor,

Your numbers are in the right ballpark. If anything, your are getting slightly faster velocities than Hodgon publishes for Varget and 175SMK (2690ft/s).

Those velocities will get you out to 1,000yards at sealevel.

If you are looking for faster velocity, you should try Alliant's 2000MR or CFE223 powders. I am getting around 2,660fps with a 20" barrel. You should get closer to 2750-27780ft/s.

These powders also meter better than varget, are just as temperature insensitive, and burn very cleanly.

Best.