IMR 4064 and 168 SMKs

[PinesAndProjectiles]

I have a question regarding my reloads. I am currently loading for my 308. I am using 39.7 grains of 4064, Remington 9 & 1/2 primers, and 168 SMKs out of a thirty inch barrel.

I am getting from 2,499 to 2,534 fps. The best group so far is .295" center to center.

There is still room left in the case for a few more grains as I was able to dump 42.5 grains into the RA61 brass I'm using. The group's did shrink a little bit, with one at .462" with this charge weight. Velocity is about 2,840 fps with this charge.

My question is, should I load a higher charge than the 42.5 grains and see if they tighten up in order to shoot a higher velocity?

Right now I've only access to a 500 yard range.

It seems this velocity is really low for a 308 and 168 grain bullets.

I only use the rifle for ringing steel right now.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[CharlieNC]

How did you arrive at 39.7 or 42.5? If you have not done this already, I would suggest you carry out a ladder or OCW trial to define your nodes and then find out which one is more accurate.

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

I found the load data in a book. I used it for an OCW test. I'm just wondering if I should continue to test charge weights above 42.5 grains.

 

[Splat]

I use 168 SMK's with Lapua brass seated to 2.820". My lower node is 43.3 gr of IMR 4064 at 2630 fps and my high node is 44.9 gr at 2712 fps. Shooting out of a 20" AIAT LW barrel.

 

[PinesAndProjectiles]

Is it necessary to strive for a higher velocity?

 

[InfScout1/69]

If you ask me... Accuracy trumps velocity

 

[BC 6.8]

I shoot 43.4 gr for a low node and 44.6 for my high node in Lapua brass with Fed 210 primers. The high node load runs about 2830 fps out of a 28" barrel.