Berger 168gr Classic Hunter in 308

[CaptJim]

Hi all, I have searched and Googled, but not getting much load info about these bullets. Looking to hear from others that may have tried these. I have a Rem. 5R 308 24" and loaded a few with 168gr Classic Hunters with 41gr IMR 4064 and Winchester LR primers. I got flattened primers (velocity was 2599fps). I was surprised as the same load also with WLR primers does not do this with a 175 SMK. I only shot three of these. There were no other signs of pressure. I have shot other 168's with higher charges without any issues.
I had hoped these might be a good general purpose round for game and target.

Just wondering if anyone has experience with these bullets, and maybe what loads seem to be successful. Any info is greatly appreciated.
CJ

 

[straightshooter1]

Hi all, I have searched and Googled, but not getting much load info about these bullets. Looking to hear from others that may have tried these. I have a Rem. 5R 308 24" and loaded a few with 168gr Classic Hunters with 41gr IMR 4064 and Winchester LR primers. I got flattened primers (velocity was 2599fps). I was surprised as the same load also with WLR primers does not do this with a 175 SMK. I only shot three of these. There were no other signs of pressure. I have shot other 168's with higher charges without any issues.
I had hoped these might be a good general purpose round for game and target.

Just wondering if anyone has experience with these bullets, and maybe what loads seem to be successful. Any info is greatly appreciated.
CJ

Though I don't know what your cartridge specs are, in looking at my QuickLoad app with a COAL at 2.800 I'm seeing an MV right in line with what you got. And pressure is well within reason at 50K psi. Winchester LR primer cup's thickness is the same as other's (like CCI or Federal), and you don't mention other pressure issues like a stiff bolt lift or ejector swipe, so I'm not sure what causing the flattening . . . except, maybe the primer pockets might be a little loose???

 

[CaptJim]

Though I don't know what your cartridge specs are, in looking at my QuickLoad app with a COAL at 2.800 I'm seeing an MV right in line with what you got. And pressure is well within reason at 50K psi. Winchester LR primer cup's thickness is the same as other's (like CCI or Federal), and you don't mention other pressure issues like a stiff bolt lift or ejector swipe, so I'm not sure what causing the flattening . . . except, maybe the primer pockets might be a little loose???

View attachment 7413950

Thank you for the detailed info on Quickload! No, there were no other signs of pressure or stiff bolt lift. Primer pockets were firm. I have used 42.5 or 43gr of 4064 with 168 SMK's in other 308's with no issues. Since all else is seemingly good I think I'll go up in small increments and see what happens. I'd like to get a little more velocity, 2650/2700 or so. The 175's are chroming at 2540 with the same 41gr load.
Thanks again,
CJ

 

[straightshooter1]

Thank you for the detailed info on Quickload! No, there were no other signs of pressure or stiff bolt lift. Primer pockets were firm. I have used 42.5 or 43gr of 4064 with 168 SMK's in other 308's with no issues. Since all else is seemingly good I think I'll go up in small increments and see what happens. I'd like to get a little more velocity, 2650/2700 or so. The 175's are chroming at 2540 with the same 41gr load.
Thanks again,
CJ

You might be able to go up to 43.8 which can give you 2700+ MV for an accuracy node at the high end. As you say, it's a good idea to "go up in small increments".