.308 loads for varmint...

[Lennyjoe]

Anyone have suggestions where to start? Did some looking in Lyman's 49th and have some ideas but thought if ask for your go to loads for the caliber.

Since powder is hard to find, I currently have H4198, H335, AA1680 and IMR 4350 on hand. Also may get my hands on H380.

Thanks in advance.

 

[KansasSasquatch]

Not something I'd normally load but I'd start with a Hornady V-Max, Sierra Varminter, or Nosler Varmegeddon, 110gr bullet. Then use the H4198 or H335. The IMR4350 and H380 are probably a little on the slow side for that lightweight bullet. IMR3031, Benchmark, and H322 would probably be good choices too. I'm not 100% sure about the AA1680, but I'm guessing it's a little on the fast side for that bullet/cartridge combo.

 

[49willys]

If you arent saving the hides just shoot them with the same bullets you use to hunt deer.

 

[Lennyjoe]

Found some Sierra Varminter 110 and IMR 4064 today. Gonna give that a try

 

[LeonCarr]

Another vote for using your deer hunting load for varmints.

Just my .02,
LeonCarr

 

[41 Mag]

With the lighter bullets of 100 and 110gr I found the velocities were somewhat scattered about, which resulted in the groups being that as well. This as however when looking to push them into higher velocities of the standard load ranges.

However, when I was working on some reduced loads for the grandson, I was using H-4895, and the 125gr Nosler BT and got excellent groups right down on the lowest load they list. I also tried those loads using the Speer 130gr Spitzer and they grouped well also.

Since that time I have worked the H-4895 loads up into the standard load range and have found that the Nosler 125gr BT, the Speer 130gr Spitzer and the Barnes 130gr TTSX were very accurate.

Not saying that the Barnes would be a good choice for varmints, but it does make for a smoking dual critter load if wanted or needed. I think you might find like I did that you will get better overall groups from the touch heavier 125'ish grained bullets with the added bearing surface than with the shorter ones.

Good luck with which ever one you go with.

 

[Laphroaig]

I agree with 41 Mag. that 125-130 weights are probably going to shoot better. You should be able to work up something with your 4064. I am partial to the Sierra 125's.

Laphroaig

 

[ZGunner]

I've had good luck with 110 gr Sierra Varminters over 46.0 gr H4895, COAL 2.62. Shot from my 20" Savage Model 10 PC they were easily clover-leafed at 100-125 yards.

I'm not sure about velocities, but I am very happy with down range performance.

 

[critter]

DO NOT OVERLOOK this possibility. Load you up some 'normal' .308 loads BUT use 150 gr FLAT NOSE bullets made for 30-30 velocities. Works wonderfully on vermin as they WILL open up due to the flat nose and thinner jackets.