308 Win - 168gr Sierra Match King vs Hornady Match

Published on July 14, 2019
Duration: 26:58

This guide details the process of reloading .308 Winchester ammunition for precision shooting, focusing on comparing 168gr Sierra Match King (SMK) and Hornady Match bullets. It covers brass preparation, powder charging, bullet seating, and range testing procedures. The expert instruction highlights the importance of component selection and meticulous technique for achieving optimal accuracy, with the Sierra Match King demonstrating superior performance in the tested Krieger barrel.

Quick Summary

In a .308 Winchester test using a Krieger barrel, the 168gr Sierra Match King (SMK) demonstrated superior accuracy over the Hornady Match, achieving groups in the 0.4-inch range. Key components included Lapua Palma brass, CCI No. 41 primers, and IMR 4895 powder, with velocities reaching approximately 2600-2620 FPS.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Comparison Goals
  2. 00:50Components & Load Data
  3. 02:30Brass Preparation & Sizing
  4. 05:24Charging & Bullet Seating
  5. 10:37Range Testing & Equipment
  6. 17:57Results & Final Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components for reloading .308 Winchester 168-grain match ammunition?

Key components include 168-grain bullets (Sierra Match King or Hornady Match), Lapua Palma brass (small rifle primer), CCI No. 41 primers, and IMR 4895 powder, with an Overall Length (OAL) typically set around 2.800 inches.

How does brass preparation affect reloading accuracy for .308 Winchester?

Proper brass preparation, including neck sizing with appropriate lubricants like Imperial Sizing Die Wax and ensuring clean primer pockets, is crucial. Attention to details like small flash holes on Lapua Palma brass prevents damage and ensures consistent ignition, impacting overall accuracy.

Which 168-grain bullet performed better in the tested .308 Winchester Krieger barrel?

The 168-grain Sierra Match King (SMK) significantly outperformed the 168-grain Hornady Match bullet in the specific Krieger 20-inch M110 profile barrel, producing tighter groups consistently.

What are the recommended load data parameters for .308 Winchester 168-grain handloads?

A testing range from 41.4 to 43.0 grains of IMR 4895 powder in 0.4-grain increments is suggested, with an OAL of 2.800 inches. Velocity targets are around 2600-2620 FPS.

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