Rifle Load Development

[TXCOONDOG]

I'm waiting for a bullet comparator that I ordered to come in and then I'm going to start loading for my 700 SPS in .308.

I picked up some Reloader 15 and 4064 (no Varget powder), 165gr SST's, and Federal 210 Primers.

I will start with 42gr(s) of powder and work my way up with a COL of 2.750"

I was going to work up in .5 gr increments until I reach 46 grains, find a sweet spot (best groups) and/or until I see signs of pressure.

This is my first attempt to start reloading for a rifle so I'm just running this by thex more experienced  reloaders, basically checking myself.

[The_Shadow]

TXCOONDOG, let me steer you to the 6mmBr site for some excellent info for the .308...

http://www.6mmbr.com/308Win.html

[TXCOONDOG]

That was very informative, especially the pressure differences between 308 Win cartridge (max 62,000 psi) vs 7.62x51 NATO (50,000 psi) brass which means that I will need to reload my LC brass by a 2 full grains less.


Thank You

[sqlbullet]

The info about pressure is not accurate.

7.62X51 NATO is rated for 50,000 CUP, not PSI.  It is rated for 60,191 PSI MAP.  This is a common mistake you will see perpetuated often even in the most reputable sources.

And, you will hit max pressure about 1.5-2 grains sooner in 7.62X51 brass.  Not because the max pressure is a little lower, but because the case is smaller on the inside than 308 brass.  7.62X51 brass has thicker walls and web than 308. Since the outside is the same, the inside has to be smaller.  Less internal volume means less powder needed to hit the same pressure.

This difference in pressure rating means it is NOT advisable to shoot 308 ammunition in a rifle with a 7.62X51 chamber.

I do have a little 7.62X51 brass sitting around.  In a few weeks I will probably be offering some for sale.

[The_Shadow]

That's a heap of brass!   It looks like a lot of that brass is from "Blanks"...those would require trimming and maybe some special cleaning!  Unless being used again for blanks.

[EdMc]

If you're using Lake City surplus brass it was more than likely fired in a full auto weapon with a 'generous' chamber. I've reloaded some for my M1A with small based dies etc. With the crimped primers it makes for a little 'extra' work in cleaning the primer pockets. 
I've found the Dillon Case Lube to work very well, and trim all the cases. Along with using CCI BR primers to guard against slam fires has more to do with it being a semi auto rifle so probably doesn't  apply to a bolt gun. You already know that the case is thicker and requires less powder. Good luck with the reloading and the Rem 700.

[sqlbullet]

Based on estimates I think about 3% is blanks.  I plan to trim them down and use them for low pressure cast bullet gallery loads.

[TXCOONDOG]

My first attempt at reloading for my 700 SPS in .308 using the following:

Once fired Remington Brass (fire formed to my chamber)
Reloader 15 Powder
Federal 210 Primers
Hornady 165 gr SST
OAL 2.750"

Started with 42 grains and went up in .5 gr increments.

I'm liking this 5 shot group the best (Hunting Load):

[The_Shadow]

Congrats, thats about as good as it gets...   Looks like its working very well. 

[EdMc]

Whoa.....looks like you've got a winner. 

[redbaron007]

Geeshhh!

I'd buy a new scope....it's got you all over the place!!