308 load data check

[joustin]

I have three loads I am looking at as a starting load. They are listed below, give me your thoughts. The A-Max looks to about 2 grains below start, I loaded a couple of rounds using the 175gr data, I figured it would be a close start with a reduction for the LC brass. Thanks in advance!

178gr A-Max
42grs Varget
2013 LC brass
Wolf Primer

168gr Nosler BTHP
42grs Varget
2013 LC Brass
Wolf Primer

155gr Nosler BTHP
41grs WC844
2013 LC Brass
Wolf Primer

 

[Reloadron]

Where did you get the loading data?

The Hornady 9th Edition:

178 gr. A-MAX (just using Varget) has a start load of 32.0 gr. with a Maximum Load of 43.2 gr. That spans 2000 to 2500 FPS in their test rifle.

The A-Max looks to about 2 grains below start...

The A-MAX @ 178 gr. looks to me to be pretty close to a Max. load.

Again, where did your posted load data come from? Unless I am missing something here or not understanding your post?

Ron

 

[joustin]

I was looking at the Hogdon data, I didn't see the 178gr and used the 175gr data. I have loaded 5 test rounds but I'll be pulling them. I forgot how much more bearing surface the 178's had, that is why I was checking. The data didn't look right when i was getting my information, so I thought I would ask.

 

[Haxby]

I'd shoot 'em.
Hodgdon shows almost the same load with a 208 gr amax.

 

[joustin]

I researched a bit and people are shooting the 178's with great success up to 45gr of Varget. Since this is virgin brass and accurate within 0.1 grains I'll try them. The pressure is well below max even with a 10% bump

 

[USSR]

I researched a bit and people are shooting the 178's with great success up to 45gr of Varget. Since this is virgin brass and accurate within 0.1 grains I'll try them.

joustin,

I wouldn't do it, especially with LC brass. The 168gr Amax load with 42gr of Varget in LC brass is close to a Max load. Sticking the heavier 178gr Amax bullet into the case with the same 42gr charge of Varget is pushing it, and 45gr is totally out of the question. You MAY get away with it with Winchester brass, but certainly not LC. The brass used in .308 Winchester is critical. Hope that helps.

Don

 

[Swampman]

Shortcuts can be expensive.

You're working with different, heavier (thus lower capacity) brass and a different, heavier bullet with greater bearing area.

This takes you out of what I'd term, "interpolation" and into W.A.G. territory.

I'd back at least the 178 grain load down and do a full workup.

 

[joustin]

Yeah I am going to pull them, its isn't worth the risk

 

[Haxby]

Why pull them?
Set them aside, work up from a lighter charge with other cases, see if you want to shoot them or pull them after that.

 

[Swampman]

I'll second what Haxby said, do your workup with the same components you've been using and you'll be fine.