Hand loads for my DPMS LT heavy 24 barrel
Hi gents. Thank for the DPMS load data!
I have a new DMPS LR 308 (thanks to OBAMA) for about 3 weeks and have experimented with several factory and hand loads.
First my DPMS has performed flawlessly with everything I offered it. As usual not all ammo performed equally! Out of six 20 round magazines one fed poorly. I am having a blast getting used to this setup.
My DPMS has a heavy 24 inch fluted barrel with a brake. It has a Leopold VX-3 8.5-25x50mm (30mm) Side Focus scope. The scope is 3 inch line of sight above the bore.
I tried recommended loads from this and other sites for 175 gr Sierra MatchKing, 165 gr Hornady AMAX and 150 gr Hornady SST. I also shot several boxes of Winchester Factory 147 gr FMJ and American Eagle 150 FMJBT commercial. I used the Winchester brass for my reloads. The American Eagle average vel was 2820 fps. The following is the average velocity measured, the best three round group (100 yard) and the load data for the three loads.
Winchester 147 FMJ factory: 2846 fps, 1.4 in group
Am Eagle 250 FMJ BT factory: 2820 fps, 1 in group
Handloads:
175 Sierra MK IMR, 4895 41.5 gr, OAL 2.8, 2583 fps, 1.4 in group
165 Hornady A-MAX IMR 4895 41.9 gr OAL 2.8, 2680 fps, 1.4 in group
150 Horndy SST IMR 4895 53.5 gr OAL 2.75, 2810 fps, .7 in group. This is the load that seems to generate the tightest groups. Pretty good velocity.
I used a RCBS AR Series Small Base 2-Die Set with Taper Crimp , cleaned the primer pocket and the flash hole. Trimmed brass to 2.015. Primer LR CCI 200. Alt 450 ft, temp 45-55 F. Winds variable up to 5 mph.
I also tried out my folding iron sights. To my surprise I managed a couple 1.4 inch groups.
I m a little superstitious about using IMR 4985 in a semi auto as this is what worked best in my 30-06 BAR. And an old gunsmith explained that the Army used IMR (then Dupont) for the original BAR. It makes sense that a gas operated rifle would be sensitive to the pressure that develops from chamber to muzzle. Still I see some folks are using Varget, R-15, R-17 and other powders. I am sure to try some of these.
Here is my rifle and my best group (5 mph variable winds).
I am looking for advice on a better bipod or even monopod with legs. You advice would be appreciated.
Jeff
LTC USA SF Ret)
Fairfax, VA