CFE 223 in 308 questions

[memo43]

I picked up a lb of CFE 223 to try out in my AR10, nothing fancy but wanted to load some amo an get out and start the new year. My problem is I can't find any load data for some 168 amax. Ive found a lot for the sierra 168, was wondering if any one could help shed some light. Not really looking for any bench rest style results just fun and safe to shoot.
Thanks in advance

 

[Brians356]

I picked up a lb of CFE 223 to try out in my AR10, nothing fancy but wanted to load some amo an get out and start the new year. My problem is I can't find any load data for some 168 amax. Ive found a lot for the sierra 168, was wondering if any one could help shed some light. Not really looking for any bench rest style results just fun and safe to shoot.

Your question and concern implies you expect a significant difference in load data between one 168-gr lead core jacketed bullet and another. Can you elaborate on your concern?

(Note that data for an all copper bullet like Barnes TSX would differ significantly from a conventional bullet, and Hodgdon's published data reflect that, but you asked about A-max.)

 

[js223]

I checked and Hornady #9 does have data for the 168 with CFE223 powder in 308 Winchester. However they also have a Service Rifle 308 section (M1A test rifle) which does not list that powder. I'd probably contact them and see if there was a reason they left it out of what I'd consider the 'gas gun' section, perhaps an issue with gas port pressure?

 

[Brians356]

I checked and Hornady #9 does have data for the 168 with CFE223 powder in 308 Winchester. However they also have a Service Rifle 308 section (M1A test rifle) which does not list that powder. I'd probably contact them and see if there was a reason they left it out of what I'd consider the 'gas gun' section, perhaps an issue with gas port pressure?

A shooting buddy has used CFE 223 with success in his AR-15 (223 Rem) so while that does not translate directly to 308 Win in AR-10, there does not seem to be any intrinsic issue with CFE 223 in ARs.

 

[rocknut]

I have had very good results with my Savage .308 bolt gun and CFE223. I ran a ladder test from 43.6 to 45.1 grains using Lake City match brass. My node seemed to be from 44.2 to 45 grains. I shot several entry level F class club matches with this set up and 168 Amax. I was generally getting 1/2 moa at 200 and 1 moa to 600 yards. I was told by several club members that 168 Amax's don't fly well any farther out than that. I have tried a lot of 155's trying to find a better combo to reach 1000 yards. The 155 Amax's have proved to be one of the best combos I've used so far as well. I use 45.5 grains in lapua & get 2750fps, which is a pretty mild 155 load. Be aware that Lake City and Lapua both have less volume than some of the other brass out there so YMMV. Hope this helps. I really like this powder and shot a bunch of it. It meters really well too.

 

[memo43]

Thanks for all the replies, I'll start at 42 grns and work up, not really looking for any distance past 400 yards mostly steel shoots for fun. I will post my findings and let everyone know. In the mean time keep loading and shooting

 

[jhord]

I use it almost exclusively in my AR-15 and I have developed M1A loads using 168SMK's. I don't have AR-10 experience but I don't know why it wouldn't work. All the usual disclaimers apply.

 

[rocknut]

Just for reference, Hodgdon shows 168's start load as 46.6 and max as 49 in Win cases, I generally subtract 1.5 grains volume to get to LC or Lapua cases. That's where I got 43.6 to 45.1 for my OCW test and still have plenty of room for safety. 45 grain was just starting to show pressure signs, still no where near max. Good luck and Happy New Year!