The Bolt Action Rifle Episode 1: Ammunition and Why it MATTERS

Published on December 4, 2024
Duration: 11:13

This episode focuses on the critical impact of ammunition quality on bolt-action rifle accuracy. Clint Morgan demonstrates how switching from inexpensive PMC 147-grain ammunition to premium Federal Gold Medal Match 168-grain ammunition significantly tightened group sizes on his Remington 700 Alpha 1 Hunter chambered in .308 Winchester. The video highlights the importance of consistent ammunition for achieving sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards, especially when combined with proper shooting support.

Quick Summary

Ammunition quality dramatically affects bolt-action rifle accuracy. Inexpensive PMC 147-grain .308 can result in 2-inch groups at 100 yards, while premium Federal Gold Medal Match 168-grain .308 can achieve sub-MOA accuracy. Using a rear rest further enhances stability and group consistency.

Chapters

  1. 00:39Introduction to Bolt Gun Series
  2. 00:54Rifle Build: Remington 700 Alpha 1 Hunter .308
  3. 01:43Ammunition Comparison: PMC vs. Federal
  4. 02:36Accuracy Test Setup: 100 Yards
  5. 04:14Shooting Federal Gold Medal Match
  6. 06:33Target Review: PMC vs. Federal Groups
  7. 07:18Impact of Quality Ammo and Support
  8. 08:48Episode Recap: Ammo Comparison Takeaways
  9. 09:18Future Episodes: Suppressed vs. Unsuppressed

Frequently Asked Questions

How does ammunition quality affect bolt-action rifle accuracy?

Ammunition quality significantly impacts bolt-action rifle accuracy. Inexpensive, bulk ammunition like PMC 147-grain .308 can yield group sizes around 2 inches at 100 yards. Conversely, premium match-grade ammunition, such as Federal Gold Medal Match 168-grain .308, is designed for precision and can achieve sub-MOA groups, demonstrating a substantial improvement in shot consistency.

What is the difference between 147-grain and 168-grain .308 ammunition?

The primary difference lies in their intended use and performance. 147-grain .308 ammunition is typically less expensive and suitable for volume shooting or general plinking. The 168-grain variant, often found in match-grade loads like Federal Gold Medal Match, is heavier and engineered for superior ballistic performance, resulting in tighter groups and greater accuracy at longer distances.

What rifle and components were used in the accuracy test?

The rifle used was a Remington 700 Alpha 1 Hunter chambered in .308 Winchester, featuring a 22-inch barrel. It was equipped with a WOLFS FURIOSA midnight gray chassis, a SilencerCo Hybrid 46 suppressor, a Harris bipod, and an EOTech Vudu 1-6x24 first focal plane optic with Sein Precision scope rings.

How does using a rear rest improve shooting accuracy?

A rear rest, or shooting bag, provides crucial stability to the rear of the rifle, minimizing unintentional movement during the shot. This enhanced stability, combined with a quality front rest and consistent ammunition, allows the shooter to better harness the rifle's inherent accuracy potential, leading to tighter and more predictable group sizes.

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