M1 Garand in .308 - Accuracy Loads?

09 May 2002, 03:53

Mule Skinner

I am looking for load data for my M1 Garand in .308. I am looking for accuracy loads that will not stress the semi-auto action too much. I have already purchased some Sierra 168 gr. BTHP Match to load but will buy others if suggested. Also, can most .308 loads be fired through the semi-auto action without causing significant wear and tear? Thanks!

09 May 2002, 09:28

<Don G>

Shark Bait,

The 308 M1 or M1A should not be fired with slow powders or bullets over 180 grains.

The 168 or 175 SMK is best (175 for >600 yards) when used with IMR4895 or IMR4064 powders. I had best luck with 43.5 grains of IMR4064 with either bullet. I think the most common accuracy load is 42.5 grains of IMR4064. The 4895 meters better, so I'd try it first. I have to weigh every charge of the 4064 to get good performance.

I used WLR primers exclusively to prevent slam fires.

Don

09 May 2002, 10:03

scot

My match Garand has a Kreiger 308 1:11 barrel. What charge of 4895 did you find best with the 168s? Any luck with WCC 846?? There is no way I would ever weigh charges for a match rifle. When you need to load by the bucket full it is just is not an option. So, powders that meter well are a must.

quote:
Originally posted by Don G:
Shark Bait,
The 308 M1 or M1A should not be fired with slow powders or bullets over 180 grains.
The 168 or 175 SMK is best (175 for >600 yards) when used with IMR4895 or IMR4064 powders. I had best luck with 43.5 grains of IMR4064 with either bullet. I think the most common accuracy load is 42.5 grains of IMR4064. The 4895 meters better, so I'd try it first. I have to weigh every charge of the 4064 to get good performance.
I used WLR primers exclusively to prevent slam fires.
Don

09 May 2002, 10:40

Major Caliber

Use Accurate Arms 4064, it's short cut, meters very well.

09 May 2002, 12:35

Robert D. Lyons

W748 and AA2460 also work very well.

09 May 2002, 13:22

Russell E. Taylor

quote:
Originally posted by Shark Bait:
I am looking for load data for my M1 Garand in .308.

I have better luck with IMR 4895 than IMR 4064; I don't remember the charge, but it's a "book" load from Sierra.

Russ

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"Out here, 'due process' is a bullet!" -- John Wayne, "The Green Berets"