Testing the cheapest 308 Winchester Ammo in my M14

Published on November 15, 2025
Duration: 9:15

This guide details the process of testing reloaded .308 Winchester ammunition in semi-automatic rifles like the M14 and M1A. It covers setting up a chronograph, evaluating muzzle velocity and accuracy at various distances, and checking for pressure signs on fired brass. The testing also extends to a Century Arms CETME rifle to ensure cross-platform reliability. The speaker, an experienced reloader, emphasizes practical accuracy and safe reloading practices.

Quick Summary

Reloaded .308 Winchester ammunition with 150-grain soft point bullets was tested, achieving velocities from 2642 to 2800 FPS. A lower powder charge yielded tight groups, while higher charges increased velocity but widened dispersion. Safety checks on fired brass for pressure signs are crucial.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Reloading Series
  2. 00:45Range Setup & Chronograph
  3. 01:04Testing Lower Powder Charge
  4. 02:56Brass Inspection and Accuracy
  5. 03:53Testing Medium Powder Charge
  6. 05:36Distance Testing with M1A
  7. 07:09Cross-Platform Testing (CETME)
  8. 08:47Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical velocity range for tested .308 Winchester handloads?

The tested .308 Winchester handloads, featuring a 150-grain soft point bullet, achieved velocities ranging from 2642 FPS to approximately 2800 FPS, depending on the powder charge used.

How does powder charge affect accuracy in .308 Winchester handloads?

Testing showed that a lower powder charge produced a tight group comparable to a US quarter at 50 yards. Increasing the charge boosted velocity but doubled the group size, indicating accuracy can decrease with hotter loads.

What safety checks are crucial when testing reloaded ammunition?

It's critical to inspect fired brass for pressure signs like flattened primers or ejector marks. These indicate safe operating pressures; any anomalies suggest dangerous over-pressure that must be addressed.

Which firearms were used to test the .308 Winchester handloads?

The .308 Winchester handloads were tested in a Springfield Armory M1A and a Century Arms CETME rifle. This cross-platform testing verified cycling and reliability across different semi-automatic platforms.

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