Help on .308 reloading

electronic powder dispenser took that out of the equation for me.
I went to a rcbs chargemaster 10 years ago when they first came out. But I still have my RCBS 10-10 scale sitting beside it for backup :)
You should be perfect on charge weight 46.0 of Varget. Varget performs at higher charge weights. I would not go past 46.0 w 168gr.
 
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Oh, forgot COAL 2.870
Shot at 100 meters
There are NO signs of undue pressure. Should I try for 2,800 fps going to 46.4 or 46.5 grains? Would that "risk" be gilding the lily?

JC
I don't have Sierra's new load manual, but according to Hodgdon's website their max load is 46gr of Varget for the Hornady 165gr Sp with a Winchester case and Fed 210 primer. You COAL is on the long side which is fine if you're off the lands. You said this is your first hunting rifle but you didn't say how much experience you have as a reloader. If you're new to loading I wouldn't go any higher on your charge until you find out Sierra's load data.
 
.308 Winchester using IMR 4895
150 grain bullet, 46.6 grains (extrapolated from following loads, untested at this writing)
155 grain bullet, 45.6 grains
168 grain bullet, 43.6 grains
175 grain bullet, 42.4 grains
178 grain bullet, 42.0 grains
178 grain bullet, good match load... use 41.7 grains with Lapua brass, 41.5 with FC brass.

.308 Winchester using IMR 4064
168 grain bullet, 42.8 grains
175 grain bullet, 41.8 grains
(these replicate Federal Gold Medal, use FC or Lake City brass and Fed 210M primer)
We like 178 grain bullet and 41.5 grains in FC or LC brass

.308 Winchester using Varget
155 grain bullet, 47.8 grains
168 grain bullet, 46.0 grains
175 grain bullet, 45.0 grains (an all around favorite)
180 grain bullet, 44.1 grains
200 grain bullet, low node 41.5 grains (10 twist barrel)
200 grain bullet, high node, 43.1 grains (10 twist barrel)

CCI BR-2's work well with Varget in WW Brass 2.810"
 
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Hello,

Thank you for all the input!

xsn10s I should state I am a novice reloader but have two very dedicated mentors with lots of experience. I should also mention that nearing my 71st birthday I have become very attached to my various body parts so am not in a disposition to risk them.;)

(I have not been able to find reloading information from Sierra for the GameChanger).

Again, thank you for your advice.

JC
 
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