H4895 reduced loads (.308)

[mark5pt56]

I consulted with Hodgdon's site and called them to make some reduced power loads for the .308. I made these for my hunting rifle (mainly the Winchester 70 Shadow) and positional training.
Goal was to make an accurate practice load that reduced recoil, could be used for short hunting ranges as well and a bonus-poa/poi deviation be minimal from zero of current hunting load.

<span style="color: #FF0000">Hodgdon only has data and recommends the H4895 powder, follow the site advise and call then if in doubt.</span>

Used Federal case, WLR primer, Sierra ProHunter #2120 125 Grain PH and H4895 of course.

Following the 60% rule, minimum charge was 29.4 grains, I used 32, 33, 34 & 35.
Average velocity/group/deviation from zero at 100 yards.

32-2082-1.205-R1"/D1"
33-2128-1.090-R3/4"/D1"
34-2209-.990-R1.5"/D.5"
35-2276-.768-R.5"/U.5"

Of course I could beat my head against the wall to tweak it further, but I see no true benefit to the time, etc. doing so. I feel I hit the goal and for positional training, won't notice the .5" deviation, doubt who would(other than internet shooters)

Anyhow, thought I would pass it along and they list data for other common calibers as well.

I haven't tried H4895 for the 168 or 175 SMK's, but did use 39 grains of Varget for the 168 to get 2250 avg velocity for the same purpose, position training for the heavier guns.
For those wanting or needing the benefit of an easy load, it's worth it for the shoulder(post surgery) I also added a Brake to one and soon to do the other Precision rig.

Mark

 

[roggom]

Re: H4895 reduced loads (.308)

I used the hodgdons recipe and backed down a grain for 37 H4895 with a Nosler 125 gr BT. The bonus is there is no need to re-zero my scope @ 100Y. It will still have over 1000 ft lbs at 200Y.

My other reduced load is 147 M80 pulls over 31 H4895. Makes a nice plinker. This one is zero at 50Y.

 

[Tough Guy]

Re: H4895 reduced loads (.308)

My reduced load is a limbsaver recoil pad, I can shoot 60 rounds of 168 grain bullets and 45.5 grains of varget in 308 and go home happy.

 

[Paladin2147]

Re: H4895 reduced loads (.308)

Historically, H4895 and its kin have always been a good reduced load powder. Also, 100yd practice with a quality cast bullet will save big on costs with little bbl.. wear. Its like dry firing with holes.

 

[roggom]

Re: H4895 reduced loads (.308)

^^ I have also used 33.3 of Varget and a gas checked 168-ish gr cast bullet. Cheap fodder for 100Y.

Recipe is from the Lee Modern reloading 2nd ed pg 145

Get around 2000 fps

I just don't shoot that one indoors as I use tumble lube and it can get kinda smokey.