Working up a load for rifles

[J_McLeod]

I've loaded a lot of pistol rounds and some .223, but I just bought my first .308 rifle a few months ago and am only now starting to load for it. My usual technique to work up a load is make 7-8 rds (2-3 to check for pressure and 5 for a group) every .2-.3gr for pistol and .4-.5gr for .233 across the load range stopping just short of max. Then I'll take the best 1-2 groups and load some more of to double check, then if I still like it make a lot. It works well for 9mm and .40, but now that I'm loading .308 with premium bullets at 40+gr of powder every time this is looking to get a lot more expensive and time consuming. As often as I shoot my .308 it may be more effective to just use factory ammo. Is there an easier way to do this?

 

[243winxb]

The 308 Win. is easy to load for. Testing a Rem 600, i loaded IMR 4895-43.0gr-CCI Br2 primer- Sierra 150 gr # 2130-COL 2.800" Rem. brass The 4 groups of 5 shots each averaged 3/4" @ 100 yds with a 7X scope. Not much work at all if you get lucky.

 

[witchhunter]

It depends on how far you want to go. I shot over 400 rounds through a brand new Remington .22/250 to find the load it really likes. I just got an old Ruger .243 last week, I am real close to happy with just about 80 rounds through it so far. Tried 5 powders and the same bullet. It likes H380. The last three 3 shot groups were all under .6". I will try some seating depth adjustments next and call it good for my newest coyote rifle.

 

[steve4102]

but now that I'm loading .308 with premium bullets at 40+gr of powder every time this is looking to get a lot more expensive and time consuming. As often as I shoot my .308 it may be more effective to just use factory ammo. Is there an easier way to do this?

If you can't afford the time or the $$, shoot factory ammo.