.556 match ammo

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You questioned bullets above. Among established service and match rifle NRA and CMP rifle shooters, the SMK is a "safe" choice. You likely won't exceed the accuracy potential of this bullet. I believe, based on my results, this also applies to the Hornady 75BTHP. Although I literally have never fired a factory round through my competition gun, I have tested extensively both these bullets, as well as a Berger offering, and could find no significant difference other than cost between these bullets with a load they liked. It's admirable that you wish to benchmark your handloads. I'd say if you're getting a better group than with the 2 factory offerings, use that load as your benchmark and try to exceed that with consistency of components and/or component tweaks. BTW, my standard match load is the H75 over 23.5 Varget or 24 R15, Wylde or Nato chamber only!. Equal performance with both, with R15 being easier to find locally, hence the switch. This is a pretty standard range for match shooters locally, all top shooters on the line will be using something similar, with the H75, 77SMK or a few with the Nosler 77.
 
When I began handloading I became completely disappointed and frustrated with factory made ammunition in very short order. I no longer waste the effort.:)
I was trying to use it as a gauge for how my reloads are doing. I was also curious about how bad cheap 223 was.
Hornady factory ammo has been a string of disappointments for me. It's strange because their components are good.
 
You questioned bullets above. Among established service and match rifle NRA and CMP rifle shooters, the SMK is a "safe" choice. You likely won't exceed the accuracy potential of this bullet. I believe, based on my results, this also applies to the Hornady 75BTHP. Although I literally have never fired a factory round through my competition gun, I have tested extensively both these bullets, as well as a Berger offering, and could find no significant difference other than cost between these bullets with a load they liked. It's admirable that you wish to benchmark your handloads. I'd say if you're getting a better group than with the 2 factory offerings, use that load as your benchmark and try to exceed that with consistency of components and/or component tweaks. BTW, my standard match load is the H75 over 23.5 Varget or 24 R15, Wylde or Nato chamber only!. Equal performance with both, with R15 being easier to find locally, hence the switch. This is a pretty standard range for match shooters locally, all top shooters on the line will be using something similar, with the H75, 77SMK or a few with the Nosler 77.
Thanks. I'm shooting a factory carbine. I probably won't exceed the capabilities of any decent bullet.
I'm currently trying h4895. If it doesn't work, 8208 and benchmark are next.
IMR4064 was accurate, but was beating on the brass.
 
Hello
You described your barrel as a 16" with a 1/8 twist. Do you know what the chamber is ? Nato? Wylde? .223? Is it a reputable maker ? I would consider lapping your barrel to make sure it's not excessively rough and check you muzzle to make sure it is not nicked.

I have been severely disappointed by factory ammo but it sounds like there might be a hidden problem with your rifle.

It sounds like the Fiocchi is shooting well. Pull one apart and weigh the powder. You might not be able to get the same powder but you can see just how much it is using and get a good look at the bullet.
kwg
 
Hello
You described your barrel as a 16" with a 1/8 twist. Do you know what the chamber is ? Nato? Wylde? .223? Is it a reputable maker ? I would consider lapping your barrel to make sure it's not excessively rough and check you muzzle to make sure it is not nicked.

I have been severely disappointed by factory ammo but it sounds like there might be a hidden problem with your rifle.

It sounds like the Fiocchi is shooting well. Pull one apart and weigh the powder. You might not be able to get the same powder but you can see just how much it is using and get a good look at the bullet.
kwg
NATO chamber. It's an Anderson AM15.
It shoots my reloads fairly well. I fault myself for at least 1/2" of the group size.
 
Creedmoor Sports sells match grade ammo.
I shot a CMP small arms firing school, and provided ammo was some 75gr Hornady BTHP match bullets loaded in processed once fired milspec brass. Most was FC 10,11,12, or LC 13. Shot well enough in RRA NM AR’s.

I’ve got some of their .30/06 (New) ammo. It’s 167gr Lapua Scenars in Lapua brass. Nothing better.
Prices are surprisingly good.
 
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