308 FMJ-BT Projectiles

[wolfe28]

Does anyone out there know who makes 308 FMJ-BT projectiles that are north of 150 grains? I have found lots of pulled, surplus, and new manufacture stuff in the 147 - 150 grain range, but I would like to fine something in the 175 range. I've got my hands on some 175 FMJ-BT lake city, long range match ammunition, and if it works well, I would like to be able to try and reproduce it and tune it to my Savage 12bvss.

Thanks,

D

 

[444]

This is what I use.
http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=816447

 

[ocabj]

When you say you are looking for FMJ, does that mean you don't want open tipped "HP" bullets like the Sierra Match King? Any reason why? How about polymer tipped bullets like the Hornady A-Max?

As far as the Lake City match ammo you have, if it's 175, it has to be a Sierra Match King HPBT and not a closed tip. If it is closed tip, it should be 173gr. I am not sure who made the 173gr bullet. It might be an old proprietary Lake City bullet produced only by LC for the military.

 

[Jim Watson]

The old M1 - M72 - M118 FMJ boattail is usually listed at 173 grains. I checked a couple of surplus distributors and they don't have any.

The 175 grain Sierra Matchking is superior in every way... unless you need penetration. It is, of course, more expensive.

 

[Matt-man]

Lapua makes .30 caliber FMJ-BTs if you don't want to use the Sierras.

 

[30Cal]

I think Lapua also makes a heavier FMJ. It would certainly be better than the surplus 173gr FMJs. Frankly, the 173 "Match" FMJs are barely better than the 147gr stuff--neither one will hold a candle to a HPBTM.

 

[wolfe28]

Thanks, one and all

Currently I am reloading several different projectiles for my Savage 12bvss, including some open tip stuff like 168 SMK's and Hornady SP's, just to name a few. I was/am looking for the FMJ-BT bullets because I wanted a heavier bullet which will give me maximum penetration. I realize that a 308 will not do everything, but after reading an article in Field and Stream about someone taking most all of the game on the Boone and Crocket list with a 7mm, I got to thinking. It should be possible to work up a few loads for my 308 that should do the same thing, allow me to go after everything short of the biggest animals on the list. The reason for wanting the heavier bullets is that my rifle has a 1:12 twist, and the heavier bullet should be a little more accurate than a lighter one.

Thanks again,

D

 

[Jim Watson]

A .30 FMJ is NOT what is needed for any North American game and is not legal most places. Any of the various controlled expansion softpoints is correct for the larger big game, like elk.

 

[Grump]

Your longer bullets will also most likely be happier with a 1:10 twist.

 

[30Cal]

The reason for wanting the heavier bullets is that my rifle has a 1:12 twist, and the heavier bullet should be a little more accurate than a lighter one.

You've got that backwards. The 1:12 is going to really shine with 150-168grs, but should handle bullets up to 175grs just fine. For hunting, go with a 165gr hunting bullet. If you have to reach for a knob on your scope (i.e. you're looking at a shot past 300yds), you're probably better off getting closer to your prey. After 300yds, your ability to judge and compensate for range and windage are going to determine whether you make a good clean hit or simply wound/miss (a heavy bullet is slightly more forgiving).

Ty