first time loading 308- 175gr

[Manzgear]

I recently purchased a die set from Forster in 308 which is a FL sizing set with Ultra micrometer for precision seating. I really like it and think it does a good job. I loaded 6 sets of 5rounds
first target is loaded with Varget - starting at #3 42grains
then #5 42.2grains then back to #4 42.5grains - the 42.2 did the best - shots at 100yards. min wind - shot with my AR10 - should be a pic with my profile.
http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j478/Manzgear/IMG_1362.jpg

 

[Manzgear]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

then the second set of rounds were loaded with IMR 4895 and they were not good at all. But I guess I have to be happy with the fact that they were on target to where I was shooting.
same order 3,5,4
IMR 4895 40gr, 40.5gr, 41gr.
and link to target is below...
any ideas on where I should go with the varget 42.2gr? I know I need to recheck it. I am limited by magazine box size with seating depth. and Since its a gas gun I dont want too much pressure cause then it wont run..?

 

[Manzgear]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

ok I am re-doing the first image since I didnt post it right..
and they are all five shot groups. as I have read the rules about not posting 3 shot groups...

 

[Manzgear]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

also I want to add that my trigger is stock and I kinda dont like it. I keep thinking my groups would be even better if I had a timney drop in or another trigger that is lighter in pull..

 

[EXSOCAL]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

Try around 44.2-44.6 grains of varget loaded to mag length. May wanna work up to this though, I didnt see pressure signs until after 45, ymmv.... be safe.

 

[ClayDirt]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

I have ran up to 45g of Varget pushing the 175 SMK with Win brass. At 45g it was starting to rough up the brass a bit, flat primers ejector swipes etc. I finally settled on 44.6g.

Work your way up a few tenths at a time. Keep an eye on they casings, have fun, and be safe.

Oh, yeah I was shooting thru a Armalite AR10T 20" 1-10 twist.

 

[Manzgear]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

Please tell me what lag length means? and I am at the limit of my seating with bullets due to magazine size. but I have checked and I know i am not touching the lands....my barrel is 1/10 as well
my brass after these loads seemed very clean and didnt look like it was blown up or anything..?

 

[Kentucky Jelly]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

I believe he meant Mag length.

 

[ClayDirt]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

Lag? I am not familar with this term myself. I have played abit with the COAL. Have stretched it from 2.8 all the way to 2.84 and have yet to notice any difference in accuracy with the 175 SMK. Finally settle on 2.81 an my working COAL.

I refuse to go any longer than the mag ID. I am not going to single feed a semi automatic rifle.

As far a the single biggest improvement to your rifle I would recommend a good aftermarket trigger. The 2 stage Armalite is nothing short on a single stage with 1/2" to 3/4" of creep.

 

[EXSOCAL]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

Yup, meant mag length, sorry bout that...

 

[Manzgear]

Re: first time loading 308- 175gr

i just want to thank you guys for answering my questions. I know my groups arent great and I dont have a GAP rifle but I appreciate the time you guys took to respond to my post. thanks again and I hope this finds you well