I am trying to perfect the load for my .308 Winchester to shoot 150 to 175 grain match bullets and game bullets. I'm getting good groups and good velocity using VihtaVuori N135 with the 150 to 168 grain bullets, but I have not reached my maximum case pressure even though I am really compacting the powder charges.

My question is...
Is it okay to compact the powder (46 grains), or should I try a slightly hotter powder like N130 or N133?

I know there will be no black and white answer for this, but I just wanted some opinions.

Thanks.

I would go with a hotter powder. Too much compression and it can back your bullet out.

Go to a powder like IMR3031(43.8grs is max with 150gr. Sierra bullets)or IMR4064, Varget. RE15 or Varget are the powders for the 168-175gr bullets. Though, since N133 is so close to IMR3031 on the burn rate chart, it may work very well with the 150gr bullets, too. Jay

IMR-3031 is my favorite powder for 150 grain bullets in the .308 followed closely by Varget. IMR-4064 is very accurate but in my rifle, compressed loads are normal with this powder and 150s but perfer it for 165 and 180 grain projectiles.

Okay thanks yall. I'll try the IMR 3031 and probably also the VV N133.