Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

[Mr_Happyface]

I did do a search, but just looking to get another conversation started on the issue.

Handloading for 155gr .308 and I'm using Varget right now, getting .6" groups pretty regularly with a light 45.4gr charge in Lapua brass, CCI 400s, and Berger VLDs at 200 yards.

I'm happy with the size of groups but the velocity is only in the high 2700s with my 26" barrel, so I'd like to up that at least 200. Problem is the groups open up quite a bit the higher I go - and it meters like gravel.

Temperature insensivity is huge for me in PA as I'd like to have one year-round load. Been thinking about trying XBR, but looking for other suggestions for very accurate temp insensitive powders.

Oh and to hear your experience with XBR.

Thanks!

 

[glock24]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

The entire Hodgdon Extreme powder line is advertised as temperature stable.

Varget is hard to beat, but you might consider trying a little faster burning powder with those light 155 grainers. H4895 comes to mind.

I've always read temperature stability comes at the price of extruded powders, meaning the powders that "meter like gravel". If there's a free lunch out there, I haven't seen it. 8208 XBR is supposed to be the closest thing to it however.

http://bulletin.accurateshooter.com/2010/03/imr-8208-xbr-performs-well-in-308-win-testing/

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1597486&page=8

 

[ncboiler]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

Have a buddy that is using XBR with good results using 155's. Seems temp insensitive so far. He is pushing the 155's real close to 2900 out of a 23" barrel.

I'm gonna test some 155's in my 5R before too long but I have so much Varget that it doesn't make sense to try anything else at this point in time although I'd like to go to the XBR.

 

[Drifter™]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

AR-Comp

 

[nashlaw]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

Happyface, this mornning I shot 45.0g Varget under the 155 SMK(not the palma) and it bangs out sub-.50" at 100yds. For me, that is the std soft shooting load. I bought a rifle from a fellow on this site last year and he told me that his favorite easy-on-the-shoulder-and-ears load was this particular recipe.

I ran a test today with 44.8g; 45.0g; 45.2g and 45.4g. There was not enough difference in the size of the groups to justify a fuss about the charge wt. As a matter of fact, on another day(maybe warmer or less humid) the loads that grouped a bit worse than the others might come out on top.

david

 

[bward]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

8208 xbr is the perfect powder for the 155's. Extremely temp stable also.

 

[josephberry]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

I use xbr with 168 grainers too. Very pleased with results.

 

[teflonhunter]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

XBR is working outstanding with 175 Bergers for me.

 

[Jayman_10X]

Re: Temp insensitive powders other than Varget?

+1 for H4895