We've all read or heard about a "proven" loads in calibers, "proven" so much so that if the rifle won't shoot it well, then it is the rifle, so get rid of it.

I will be working on a new 308 very soon and it has been some years since I loaded for one.

Is there a "go to" load for the 308 that most would opine is fairly universal and should work very well? I'm open to bullet, bullet weight, powders. However, I will only use Fed210M or WLR primers and Lapua brass since that is what I have.

Load #1 168, or 175 MK or Nosler BT/AB

42.3 - 43.5 grains of IMR 4064 and the quality primer of your choice (Federal 210M) Lapua brass helps. The powder range will adjust to your barrel Doc.



The above group is 175 Sierra MK's and IMR 4064 fired at 300 yards in a Remington VSSF .308, Jewel trigger and Tubb firing pin spring, no modifications to the rifle beyond that.

Load # 2 150, 155 grain bullets Varget and between 44.5 and 45.5 what your rifle prefers, same primers and brass.

Doc, wise choice, and if you haven't seen it there is an awesome breakin proceedure on Badger Barrels web site worth reading.

Badger Barrels link to breakin info

Email for the esoteric and borderline insane options.

quote:

Is there a "go to" load for the 308

For my shooting it seems there is no "go to" loads but there are a few "go to" bullets.

In .308 caliber one can try ballistic tips or Hornady SSTs (or even sierra matchkings) in any of several weights from 150 to 180,

There may be other universally accurate bullets but these are among the ones I've found to be blessed with magic.....they just seem to shoot well in anything. If I can't get a gun to shoot either ballistic tips or SSTs, I know I'm in for trouble!

FWIW my .308 likes Varget......but several other powders work well too.

i usually have several bullets. but usually one powder RL-15 with WLR 45.0 grs. with 150 sierra B.T. shoots very well.. alone with bal.tip. and speer.. these are great hunting loads.

I have 8 pounds of IMR4064 and 6 pounds of Varget. No Re15. I have the following bullets on hand:

150 Btips
180 ABs
185 Bergers

Varget for the 150's and IMR for the heavies... you're done