173 grain military match bullets loads .308 and 30-06

[ngoforth]

I am wanting to know if I can use sierra 175 grain matchking load data as a starting point for the 173 grain bullets in .308 and 30-06. All the usual precautions apply, start low and work up, watch for pressure. I am just using them for fun/plinking so I don't need to load hot. If they hold minute of steel plate I am happy. I am not trying to duplicate original match loads.

 

[6bra1k]

good idea..but remember they are not MATCH bullets

 

[ngoforth]

good idea..but remember they are not MATCH bullets

The little google research I have done tells me they were not held to tight standards at the end of production on worn out machines. I have also read some may be a bit larger in diameter and to watch for pressure even at moderate loads.

 

[chkunz]

I shot many of them in competition in the M14. They will get you to the Master Classification. I used the standard 168 SMK load of 41 grains of IMR4895.