Question about ladder test and charge weight for .308

[PRScustom]

Ok, so the other day I went out to the range and shot my first ladder test with my first reloads; here are the results and test gear.

Rifle: Savage FCP-K -10 .308 with 24" barrel
Bullet: 175 gr SMK
Brass: Lapua 308, large primer
Primer: Federal 210M
Powder: Varget
Loaded to touching the lands at 2.228 from the ojive. Shot at 300 yrds.

As you can see shots 8-10 are great that powder range was 44.9gr-45.3 moving up in .2 increments.

So my question is should I keep that or look for something with a higher powder charge?

I have loaded up a batch that went from 45gr-47.4gr in .2 increments to try again and see if there was a node with a higher powder charge. But after looking at the reloading depot 45gr of Varget seems to be around the higher end. I figured I would not get to 47 because I would probably see to much pressure but I loaded them anyway because the range is far away. I am loading for complete accuracy. I shoot in tactical moving target competitions out to 1000 yrds, and I have space out in the desert to shoot over a mile which I am working up to (1,400 so far). I have been using match factory ammo, but just started reloading.

So should I stick with the 45gr of Varget or take the higher load batch out and try for a higher powder charge?

The only thing I didn't bring with me was a chrono so I don't know the FPS, but based upon my factory loads and these I would say they are in the 2700 fps range.

Thanks for any help and advice, -Matt

 

[JoshcBoucher]

I "run" 44.7 Varget, behind a 168 SMK, at 2.96 Oal, for my 5R. Your 8-11 shots look like a good "spot" to be in. I'd stick with that. Also,{some guys don't like it"} Try a little slower load, for accuracy, and not "speed". I found a "node", for my gun, that surprised me. 37.3 Viht 135, behind a 168, at 2.96. My gun likes 2.96, 2+-K, off the lands. The load "runs at app. {can't find my book} SLOW, but it's the "Most accurate" load for me to date. Drills little holes. I "ran for speed", when I started. Now I look for "accurate". The Viht load, though lite, hits. If you're "hunting", and looking for knock down Ft.LBS. of energy, OK, but I'm just shooting paper. A "little slower", is easier on my brass, gun, and shoulder.

 

[PRScustom]

I knew that higher velocity normally degrades accuracy so that's why I wasn't sure if I should go any higher with the test. I just wanted to make sure I would have enough ummph to get out to a mile or so when I go to the desert.
Any other thoughts, suggestions?

 

[Punisher29073]

I just did the ladder test last weekend and some groupings this morning. My sweet range was 44.4-44.7. Sweet spot ended up being 44.6 gr.

8-11 is where I would start if I was you.

Ryan

 

[Bob 964]

8-11 is where I would start if I was you.

Ryan

I agree. This 4-shot node has minimal vertical dispersion.

 

[JGorski]

Maybe try this recipe that Brad uses.
Hodgdon Varget 43.0 Russian 175 SMK Lapua 2610 fps Brad Sauve F-TR Match Load, .018" Jump

That sounds like the right amount of varget to me.

 

[hunting1]

I agree. This 4-shot node has minimal vertical dispersion.

Another vote! Mine likes 45 grs with 168's!