Search results

  1. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    No, they did not ask for a headspace spec. Lesson learned. Lapua is a bit expensive for my budget, my application (<1MOA for training with a semi) mostly likely doesn't require Ferrari level brass. What are some good, less expensive alternatives? Thank you very much for the good info and...
  2. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    You mean fired and unprocessed? They are 1.625, 1.624, 1.625, 1.626, 1.624, avg = 1.625" For comparison, here's the data on the Winchester brass: Processed: 1.616, 1.617, 1.614, 1.618, 1.618, avg = 1.617" Fired and unprocessed: 1.627, 1.624, 1.624, 1.624, 1.624, avg = 1.625" The Winchester...
  3. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    Simply put: I ran out of factory new Lapua brass. I bought once fired Winchester brass based on recommendation from this article on AccurateShooter.com. Data from 9/20 on the new Lapua brass load is as follows: Low: 2406 High: 2489 Avg: 2442 ES: 83 SD: 43 Group: 0.400 @ 100yds Data from...
  4. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    All components were the same, same loads build, fired out of the same rifle, though the rounds were assembled on different dates with exactly the same equipment. The only difference was the brass, and ambient temperature. Interesting. Did you measure the velocity from the opened up group...
  5. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    Yes, the Lapua brass from the first batch was straight from the box, without any prep or sizing.
  6. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    Powder charges were measured on an RCBS Chargemaster 1500. The machine was warmed up, calibrated before dispensation, and each charge weigh was stable before I filled the case.
  7. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    That's a possibility. I'm using a Shooting Chrony Beta. Though certainly not the latest and best on the market, it has worked reliably for the last decade. I would think if the problem lies with the chrono, the numbers would vary between shooting strings on the same day, but that's not the...
  8. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    @straightshooter1, thank you for your insights. I didn't know case volume between new vs once fired would make this much difference. I know brass expands once fired, but I thought the full length sizing die would return it to SAAMI specs. When the round fires, wouldn't the internal pressure...
  9. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    @nn8734, I ran out of factory Lapua brass so I couldn't really make a comparison between the first and second. Using my Hornady headspace gauge, I got the average base-shoulder length of the once fired Lapua (processed and loaded) at 1.622". The average for once fired Winchester is 1.617". I...
  10. S

    The tale of two 308 reload batches

    Hi folks, I'm working on developing my 308 handloads for a 16" AR10, and came across the following observation. I'm a bit perplexed as to the root case, and am hoping the community can shed some light. I made two batches of handloads: same bullet, same powder load, two different brass, and...
  11. S

    Reliable, in-expensive AR10 mags recommendations?

    Reporting back to this thread after firing several range sessions, here's my findings: Gun: Colt LE901, 16" 308Win Ammo: mix of mil-surplus, 168gr and 175gr match Mags that worked: Larue, C-products, Magpul Mags that didn't work: DPMS The Larue mags worked without a hitch, which is to be...
  12. S

    Which 155gr Palma bullet have I got here?

    I bought some factory 2nd 155gr .308 bullets from Midway recently. The box came with generic label, and no name brand. Called up tech support and they don't know the manufacture either. Here's the P/N from Midway website: Product #: 974257 Factory Second Bullets #: 847761 Here's the average...
  13. S

    BNIB LaRue ACOG Mount

    I'll take it, email incoming.
  14. S

    New to 308win reloading, need advice

    @DrewC, I'm all for keeping thing simple :) For my 223 and 300blk reloads I've used Sheridan case gauges, but that's before I learned about the Hornady headspace gauge. As far as load development procedure goes, is it better to seat the 175gr SMK just off the lands and find the load with the...
  15. S

    New to 308win reloading, need advice

    @Ryridesmotox, I'm a cheap ass as well, which is why I'm looking at once fired LC or Winchester ($.20 / brass), instead of new Lapua or Starline (>$.50 / brass). Where I live I don't have the luxury of just going to an army range and pick up 308 brass, otherwise I'd have done it (it's like...
  16. S

    New to 308win reloading, need advice

    @Ryridesmotox, between Winchester and LC, which do you find to have better quality? I read somewhere that Winchester has higher case volume, where as LC has thicker base, and presumably functions more reliability in a gas gun. Is there any truth to that? If I get military LR brass (how do I...
  17. S

    New to 308win reloading, need advice

    Hi everyone, I'm new to the world of 308win (been shooting and reloading 223 up til now). I'm starting my load development and could use some advice to narrow down my choices. Please bear with me as I tend to get pedantic. Goal (in order of priority): 1. To create a few 308 loads that'll...
  18. S

    To Small Base or not to be

    How do you achieve the SB effect without a dedicated die?