This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about loading .308 Winchester ammunition using Varget powder. We'll cover safe reloading practices, optimal charge weights, bullet selection, and performance results. Remember, safety is paramount when reloading ammunition. Always consult your reloading manual and follow its instructions meticulously. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional guidance.
Understanding Varget Powder and its Application in .308 Winchester
Varget is a popular extruded powder known for its excellent accuracy and performance across a wide range of bullet weights and calibers, including the versatile .308 Winchester. Its relatively slow burn rate makes it suitable for heavier bullets and longer barrel lengths, delivering consistent velocities and reduced pressure spikes. This characteristic makes Varget a go-to choice for many precision shooters and reloaders.
Varget's Properties:
- Type: Extruded
- Burn Rate: Relatively slow
- Suitable for: A broad range of bullet weights and calibers
- Known for: Accuracy and consistent performance
Choosing the Right Components for Your .308 Varget Loads
Before we delve into specific load data, let's discuss the essential components and considerations for successful reloading.
Bullet Selection:
The bullet weight significantly influences your powder charge. Heavier bullets generally require more powder to achieve optimal velocity. Popular bullet weights for .308 Winchester loads with Varget include:
- 147-150 grain: Excellent for target shooting and hunting at moderate ranges.
- 168 grain: A popular choice for long-range precision shooting.
- 175 grain: Designed for long-range accuracy and hunting applications.
Remember: Always use bullets designed for the .308 Winchester caliber. Using incorrect bullets can lead to dangerous pressure increases and potentially catastrophic results.
Primers:
Reliable primers are essential for consistent ignition. Popular choices include:
- CCI BR-2: Known for its reliability and consistent ignition.
- Federal 210M: Another excellent choice with a strong reputation for performance.
- Winchester WLR: A widely used primer suitable for various applications.
It is important to use primers specifically designed for rifle cartridges, as pistol primers are not suitable for higher pressures found in rifle rounds.
Cases:
Using clean, properly prepared cases is critical for safe and reliable reloading. Ensure your cases are free from any damage, corrosion, or excessive wear.
Case Preparation: This process typically involves:
- Deburring: Removing sharp edges from case mouths and flash holes.
- Sizing: Returning the case to the correct dimensions.
- Trimming: Ensuring uniform case length.
- Cleaning: Removing any debris or residue.
308 Load Data with Varget Powder: (Disclaimer: This data is for informational purposes only. Always consult your reloading manual and follow its instructions carefully.)
The following table provides sample load data. These are not recommended loads and should not be used without consulting a reliable reloading manual specific to your equipment and components. Your results may vary based on your specific equipment, environmental conditions, and components used.
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Bullet Type | Primer | Case | Powder (Varget, grains) | COL (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | FMJ | CCI BR-2 | Once-fired | 42.0 | 2.810 | Start Low |
| 150 | FMJ | CCI BR-2 | Once-fired | 43.0 | 2.810 | Work up slowly |
| 168 | Match | Federal 210M | Once-fired | 43.5 | 2.810 | Start Low |
| 168 | Match | Federal 210M | Once-fired | 44.5 | 2.810 | Work up slowly |
| 175 | Match | CCI BR-2 | Once-fired | 42.5 | 2.810 | Start Low |
| 175 | Match | CCI BR-2 | Once-fired | 43.5 | 2.810 | Work up slowly |
COL: Cartridge Overall Length
Important Considerations:
- Start Low, Work Up: Always start with the minimum recommended charge listed in your reloading manual and gradually increase the powder charge in small increments. Never exceed the maximum recommended charge.
- Observe for Pressure Signs: Pay close attention to your cases for any signs of excessive pressure, such as flattened primers or excessive case head expansion. If you observe any pressure signs, immediately stop loading and reassess your data.
- Chronograph Your Loads: Using a chronograph is recommended to accurately measure your velocity and ensure consistency.
- Record Keeping: Maintain meticulous records of your load data, including bullet weight, powder charge, primer type, and velocity measurements.
Safety Precautions When Reloading Ammunition:
- Eye and Hearing Protection: Always wear appropriate eye and hearing protection when reloading ammunition.
- Clean Workspace: Maintain a clean and organized workspace to prevent accidents.
- Proper Equipment: Use only high-quality reloading equipment that is in good working condition.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions in your reloading manual.
- Never Exceed Maximum Loads: Never exceed the maximum recommended powder charge.
- Dispose of Defective Ammunition: If you encounter any defective ammunition, do not attempt to fire it. Dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
Conclusion
Reloading .308 Winchester ammunition with Varget powder can be a rewarding experience. By following these guidelines, using proper safety precautions, and meticulously documenting your results, you can create accurate and reliable ammunition for target shooting, hunting, or other applications. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult reliable resources before attempting any reloading procedures. This guide provides a starting point; further research and hands-on experience are crucial for successful and safe reloading.