Hornady 178gr A-Max or BTHP Match?

[jwrowland77]

I currently use 175gr SMK for my match loads, but have been thinking about testing some new bullets just to see if I can get better accuracy.

The A-Max G1 is listed as .495, while the BTHP Match is listed as .530.

Which would you choose and why?

The main reason I was looking at Hornady is for one, they're cheaper, but also have good consistency.

I also plan to try some 185gr Berger VLD, IF I can find them.

 

[HexHead]

Go with the better BC.

 

[jwrowland77]

Go with the better BC.

That's what I was thinking, but a lot of folks use those A-Max but I didn't know if it was for a certain reason or not. The higher BC would definitely help with shooting 600 and 1000yd comps.

 

[USSR]

jwrowland77,

In my load development work, I found zero difference between the Berger 185gr bullet and the 190SMK, so with the Sierra's being cheaper, I used them. However, to get the most velocity out of them, you should use Vihta Vouri N550 powder. Have heard that RL17 is also good with these bullets, but have no personal experience with it.

Don

 

[kelbro]

Try the Sierra 190 SMK. The 178s shoot well but for long distances, the 190s carried better for me.

 

[jwrowland77]

Try the Sierra 190 SMK. The 178s shoot well but for long distances, the 190s carried better for me.

I'll have to check the jbm calculators. I only have a 1:12 twist. I'll have to double check and make sure it can stabilize it.

 

[USSR]

My FN SPR has a 1-12" twist, and it stabilizes them just fine at the 2700fps I run them at.

Don

 

[jwrowland77]

My FN SPR has a 1-12" twist, and it stabilizes them just fine at the 2700fps I run them at.



Don

190's? Or the 178's.

178's should be no issue. 190's at 2700? That's smoking

 

[USSR]

Yep, 190SMK at 2700fps. Of course, I've got a 26" barrel, and I am only able to attain that velocity (and stay within pressure specs) with N550 powder.

Don

 

[jwrowland77]

Hmmmmm, I got a 26" barrel as well. Might just have to find some N550 and 190 SMK. That would surprise the guys on the lines at comps.

 

[USSR]

jwrowland77,

Sent you a PM containing load data for the 190SMK/N550 load for .308.

Don

 

[jwrowland77]

Got it sir. Thank you sir.