Loading for 18" .308

[match308]

I've heard two different theories in regards to making loads for a shorter barreled .308.
Theory one- due to the shorter barrel the bullet has less time in the bore, which limits the ability to stabilize a heavier bullet. Lighter bullets recommended with a powder on the slower side.
Theory two- The shorter barrels need heavier bullets with a faster powder due to the decreased gas expansion.
I am running a heart 1-11.25 twist

 

[JSTARSZ]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

I load for a Bartelin 1:11.27, 24" barrel and I load for a Rock 1:10, 18" barrel and I don't do anything different. I know that isn't scientific but the rifles don't seem to mind. If you were to use a Federal Gold Medal Match Bullet, let's say 168 GR, and fired it from both rifles I don't think you would notice anything different other than velocity would be less in the shorter barrel. I think sometimes as reloader's we make too much out of this. I find what my rifle likes and go with it.

 

[AKAce]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

My 18" Shaft loves 178 A-Max (44 Grains of IMR 4895, 2650 FPS)

 

[KIDGLOCK]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

The 208 AMAX RL-17 thread disproves your " I heard , there for its right " Theory .

 

[kraigWY]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

I heard a lot of stuff on the internet that makes no sense at all.

I figure each rifle is differant, requiring differant loads. I know fast dosn't mean accurate.

I know some of the best 308 shooters out there are ISU 300 meter shooters. They seem to lean toward about 2200 fps. I also know that wont work in a M14/M1A service rifle.

I know what Gary Anderson told me, (and he knows shooting) "if it don't shoot 41 grns of 4895 & 168s, I wont shoot it".

I know Gary Anderson shot a Model 70 to set his 200 yard standing record (which has yet to be broken) but I've heard on the net that Model 70 Long actions make piss poor target rifles. If you arn't shooting a M-700 you arn't competitive.

But I never heard the stuff mentioned by the OP. Not sure I believe everything I read on the internet.

 

[match308]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

I didnt just read this on the internet. I got both theories from reloaders that I trust. They are not my theories.Not stating either is correct, just looking for guidance from those that have been there. Thanks to those that gave their .02

 

[BCP]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

I've heard goofy stuff like that at gun stores, I don't pay any attention to it.

 

[blklabs]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

I run a Krieger 19" with 178 AMAX at 2634 fps and it shoots lights out. I wouldn't listen to the theories and would use what shoots good in your rig.

In the LTR before I sold it (20"), I ran the 168 and 178 AMAX with equally good results. The 208 AMAX would not stabilize in the factory tube.

I know neither of these are 18" but they are close enough.

 

[SooStan]

Re: Loading for 18" .308

All the theory about long barrel vs. short barrel, fast powder vs. slow powder just holds no water in my experence. Good shooting loads seam to well in a long barrel or short barrel. 41 grns of 4895 & 168s=Great advise. 44-45 Gr. Varget 168 also a good shooter regardless of barrel leanth.