25 January 2014, 19:10
RMBHunter.300 WSM Load Choice with Custom BT???
I have a question regarding my .300 WSM and a new scope I purchased. I am currently shooting handloaded 180 grain Hornady Interbond bullets and have had great success. I just purchased a new Swarovski 3.5 X 18 X 44 with a Ballistic turrent to replace my older Swaro 4 X 12 X 50 because it is too old to retrofit with a BT. My dilemma is Hornady has suspended the manufacture of these bullets and they were not too reassuring on if or when they would ever manufacture them again. They recommend I go with the SST because BC and grain weight is the same. I have always liked the bonded bullet and have had great success with big game animals in Africa and all over North America. I still have 4-5 boxes of the Interbond, but fear I will not be able to get anymore. I am not completely sold on the SST for big bodied, thick skin animals. Swarovski is waiting for me to tell them my load info so they can custom etch my BT. Any suggestions?
25 January 2014, 19:52
thecanadianWhy not switch to Accubonds or Scirocco's? If you are set on a bonded 180gr. bullet with a polymer tip they both offer a viable alternative with improved ballistics.
180gr. Accubond
Bullet Length: 1.380"
Sectional Density: 0.271
Ballistic Coefficient: 0.507
180gr. Hornady Interbond
Sectional Density: 0.271
Ballistic Coefficient:0.480
Swift Scirocco II
Bullet Length: 1.435"
Sectional density: .271
Ballistic coefficient: .520
26 January 2014, 23:13
sbhooperIf you have four or five boxes yet, then use them. Don't use them for target practice and they will serve you well for hunting for quite some time. Use the Interlocks for target practice, as they will hit virtually the same poi.
Do not use the SSTs unless you don't mind taking a chance on a lost elk due to lack of penetration. They dynamite on bone. If you change, go with Partitions or Accubonds. The new long range accubonds will come apart on close shots, as the jackets are made to perform at long range, but the regular accubonds should be good to go.
If you don't want to use the Interbonds, I will buy them.
26 January 2014, 23:52
Texas KillartistGood advice so far. If you are stuck on the interbond, use it for hunting. I would load a 180g BT for practice.
27 January 2014, 00:27
RMBHunterThanks for all of the help. I have researched Accubonds and they are backordered everywhere also. Looks like no lead designs like TSX and GMX are the bullets more available due to lead smelter issues. I have never used these style bullets on game. Thought of using the SST for the range and keep my IB's for game, but still would like to know what the manufacturers plan for the future.