factory accuracy vs handload accuracy and velocity.

[spitballer]

...some slower powders if one has the barrel length to use them. But really it is all about timing the exit of the bullet with the wave harmonics...

I have to agree with this. I don't know how long the Axis varmint barrels are but IMO matching propellant speed with a longer barrel ain't so easy. FWIW I've found that a max load of Varget is just the ticket for thin-jacketed 55's in my varmint barrel with 12" twist, although a 9" twist may differ. Keeping subsequent shots tight on the other hand (tight groups) is about fouling IMO, and it doesn't strike me as unusual that oilhunter would have to keep charges down to control group size, especially with thin-jacketed bullets.

 

[horsey300]

i guess it would be a BDC. its a vortex crossfire 6-18

Have you played with:
http://apps.vortexoptics.com/lrbc/
I ran a scenario with a 100 yd zero in central Ohio (just guesstimate) with vortex supplied field conditions. I also figured a 100 yd zero, you of course can tweak it till you're where you need it, but this is what I got for guestimation of your load's trajectory. If you run your loads over a chronograph that would help obviously, but it's an idea to help decide if you really want those turrets.....I'd still recommend a good MIL or half mil with target turrets then your data will be easier to match holdovers etc.

 

[someguy2800]

I'm sorry but the words "in a 1" square and "horrible" just don't belong together.

I keep saying this in every thread you post, you bought a very inexpensive entry level rifle and got lucky to have gotten an unusually accurate rifle in that price point. I can't believe you think keeping 5 rounds inside a 1" square is horrible accuracy. I'm very confused by your expectations, it sounds like you are doing well but won't accept success.

I agree with what your saying in that you have to let the gun tell you what it wants, but if my 223 savage varmint rifle wouldn't shoot into a 1" square I would throw it in the river.

 

[Hondo 60]

Will the powder type from factory and handloads really make that much difference in accuracy with higher velocity?

Absolutely, Yes!
Factories have access to blends of powder you & I can't get.

But my handloads, in some calibers, are vastly more accurate.
The beauty is, I can tailor ammo to MY GUNS.
Whereas, factories make ammo good enough for any gun.

 

[witchhunter]

Without a chronograph, how do you know what FPS factory ammo or your reloads are running? My advice would be either get a chrono, or load your most accurate load, shoot it at all yardages and measure drops. Write them down. Use your BDC scope to determine where to hold over. It sounds to me like you have obtained acceptable accuracy with your own loads. This has been my MO for many years. It works.