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Help Identify Accuracy Node

I'm a relative newby to long-range shooting and load development. I've read about and attempted the ladder test but I'm having a challenge identifying the accuracy node of my most recent test. Any input on it is appreciated.

Tested loads:
Target at 300 yds
Remington 700 Milspec 5R
24" bbl
.308 Win
168gr SMK
Varget
42.0-45.6 gr with .4gr variance between loads
Min velocity 2368 fps
Max velocity 2677 fps
 

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I like the 8,9,10 node best.

Here is my interpretation:
<> 1,2 scattering (scatter node)
<> 3,4,5 fast node
<> 6,7 scattering (scatter node)
<> 8,9,10 slow node
With 9 being the increment I would base further testing from.

My 2-Cents
Donovan
 
I like 8, 9, and 10 as well, but I'm confused as to why the loads are so much higher (44.8, 45.2, 45.6 gr) than most of the other accuracy loads I've read about for a similar platform.
 
I've seen that a bit on the internet. Joe nobody posts that he is getting 1/2 MOA "all day" with 43.5 gr of superwhammy powder.

When you try it, it is a scatter node - go figure...

What I have found is that powder lots vary, load data is subject to a lot of variables that few have the experience to understand, and one person's all day 1/2 MOA is more like 1.5 MOA to me.

Shoot your rifle where your rifle shoots. Nobody else's data matters.

If it helps, you found the approximate spot where my 24" 308 likes to be as well.
 
Hi mate, you could try something different:
Choose a velocity/ load window of 2 grains
For the same proj weight and case weight, load 20 proj at 0.1 grain increments (ex 1st shot- 45.1, 2nd shot 45.2, 3rd shot 45.3 and so on) and an extra 3 fouling shots.
Set up at the range: chronograph, paper or electronic target and a way to record which shot number in sequence at the target.
Slowly fire each shot in sequence as to not excessively heat up the barrel.
Record the vlocity of each shot.
As you fire, some shots gradually feel that they have less recoil (more of a gentle push) (node) (record the shot number for these) and others feel that the recoil is a kick from a mule (scatter).
After the shoot, you will have two sets of data (velocity and target).
Disregard the fouling shots.
Compare the shot number sequence on the target and get the intervals where they group in elevation.
Compare the shot number sequence where you get a velocity flat spot where the load increases and the velocity barely changes.
You will find that the shot interval for both three types (less recoil, target group and flat spot velocity) are similar.
Pick the load in the middle of the interval and test.
That load is where the barrel is more tolerant to changes in load/ powder batch, it has positive compensation and the third harmonic node is away from the muzzle (check ocw theory).
Hope it helps. It sure helped me every time :)
Notes: watch out for pressure signs for every shot while you're taking your time between shots (flattened primers, cratered primers and using a magnifying glass to check for gas leakage around the primer where it contacts the primer pocket).
You should find a node every 2 grains or so in a .308. If the node is too fast for what you want, repeat the test with a lower interval by 1.5 grains or even 2 grains.
 
Last edited:
Just from my humble experience:
my barrel seems to use the same velocity as a node regardless of how much it wears out. Throughout it's history, I've repeated ladder tests and the loads gradually increased from just over 45grains when new to 47.6 grains at this stage.
Node velocity when new: 2976 fps with just over 45grains
Node velocity at 11200 rds: 2976 fps with 47.6grains
 

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