Reloads for M1a SCOUT????

[target4fun]

I am having some problems coming up with a good load for my m1a scout after alot of trial and error seeing if any one could give me some info that worked for the Scout which is the shorter version of the M1a .... The m14 that I have with the full length barrel eats pretty much anything but the scout version with the shorter barrel is giving me problems ... I have been useing Varget powder and I begining to think its too slow burning for my barrel length... Any data for the Scout would be appricated!!

please include brass type, powder& weight, OAL

thanks in advance as always

 

[target4fun]

any one?

 

[Archie]

Not any difference...

Barrel length doesn't mean much in terms of powder selection. Powder selection is based on bullet weight - and limited by action type.

All rifles shoot somewhat differently, and some take a particular likeing or dislike to certain loads.

Do not use slower powders, they will bend the operating rod. You're best off with 4895, 3031, or one of the WC series of surplus powders made for .308 Winchester - or 7.62 NATO, if you prefer.

The loads will be in the range as for a regular M1A (or M14). You may find it shoots better with a little more - or a little less.

 

[Sunray]

The Scout is a marketing thing. A target rifle it ain't. The .308 was designed to give optimum accuracy with a 22" barrel. A short barrel won't shoot as well with the same ammo you use for a 22" barrel. You lose about 100fps per inch of barrel less than 22". You'l llikely find that a lighter load shoots better out of the abreviated barrel. Try some 150 grain bullets with IMR4064.

 

[target4fun]

Yeah, the scout is perfect for me for what i use it for (fps only matters on scout if your shooting it past 600 which i dont w. my scout), my target gun is an ar-15 and various bolt guns.. and i also have a m14 (22 incher) i was just trying to look for loads for this one Thanks for the idea on 4064 because i also have some of that, I thought the burn rate of 4064 was also kinda slow isnt 4895 surplus powder thats running out?

 

[USSR]

41.5gr IMR4895 with 168gr - 178gr bullets in military brass will get you where you want to be.

Don