hunting ammo for m14

I've loaded up some .308 Hornady's with a starting load of H4895, and will be trying a few 150gr Win SP as well, probably with IMR 3031 and H414. I have yet to see how they perform.
 
I use 150gr Winchester Power point. I don't think it is recommneded to exceed the 165-168 gr bullet size as the M14 was designed to fire 145 gr FMJ. The 180gr's would be a little harsh on the action....


Regards,
 
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Winchester XP3 150gr.

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"...designed to fire 165 gr FMJ..." It was designed to fire the, then new, 7.62 NATO's 147 grain bullet. 180's won't hurt the rifle. However, the .308 shoots 165 grain hunting bullets the most accurately.
If you are not reloading, you will have to try as many brands of factory ammo as you can to find the brand your rifle shoots best. No two rifles will shoot the same ammo the same way.
 
The greater than 168 concern comes from competition teams that shoot many thousands of rounds a year. Over time it damages the oprod due to the extra pressure. A few boxes to sight in and go hunting is not going to be a problem.

That said, many of us still choose to stay within the 168 limit for hunting just because we can't stand the idea of doing anything that could potentially hurt our baby. A 168 TSX or other quality bullet is going to get the job done in most scenarios where a 308 is appropriate.
 
On my other hunting rifles, I really like the Winchester Supreme Nosler Ballistic Tips and Accubonds. I would like to try the 168 gr NBT and XP3 but I'm having issues on finding the XP3 here in my area. I've tried the Federal Premium Sierra Gameking 165 gr as well as the cheaper Federal Power Shok 150 gr softpoint and Winchester Super X 150 gr softpoint. Out of these three, the Federal Power Shok 150 sp is the best. I'm looking to spend more money on better ammo, preferably Nosler Ballistic Tips or XP3 because my rifle really likes to eat up the exposed lead tips.
 
NamSurvivor said:
... I'm looking to spend more money on better ammo, preferably Nosler Ballistic Tips or XP3 because my rifle really likes to eat up the exposed lead tips.
Click to expand...

Exactly why I went with the XP3's, they feed just like a surplus FMJ in my rifle. Actually dare I say they seem to feed better for me, at least by hand, fast and slow.
 
I've been looking for XP3 ammo since it was introduce but havent been able to get my hands on them yet. I will try find this ammo. I really like the accubond and ballistic tips.
 
At the price of the XP3's, you should cast your own bullets out of solid gold - it might be cheaper!

Hmm, it would expand well, and a fouled barrel would actually increase the value of the rifle. I might be onto something there. :p
 
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