IMR XBR 8208 and heavy bullets

[schuh]

Hello I was wondering if IMR 8208 would work with Berger 30 cal 185 gr. BT target in a 308 Win with a 26" 11" twist barrel. I see that it is being used with allot of 155 to 175 gr. bullets but was hoping to hear of some experiences with 185 grain ones. Thanks.

 

[Fordnutter]

My good friend has still to test the heavies in his 308. IMR XBR8208 is simply the powder to use for the 155gr range though. Es velocity spreads under 5fps in his rig with several 155gr projectiles - It holds amazing vertical at 1000yds!

 

[jbpmidas]

Is he using Sierra Palmas? I have 100 of those and I have a little 8208 to try. My rifle did not like the 8208 and 175 SMK's nearly as well as it liked Varget.

 

[Steve Blair]

Fordnutter is absolutely right about 155s. I shoot Berger 155.5 FULLBORE bullets with 8208 and the load is amazingly accurate. I shot a 26" barrel tactical rifle in 1000 yard F-Class and did quite well until the afternoon wind arrived.

I ran one series with 185 Bergers and found accuracy very good with low SD but velocity down 50-70 fps from slower powders. This is in a 30" barrel and shorter barrels would not see as much difference. Groups went from .27" to .42" at 100 yards and SD in the 7-14 range.

 

[Bamban]

Steve,

Could you share your 8208 load, both the 155.5 and 185?

Thank you

Nez

 

[Steve Blair]

All the usual disclaimers apply: Start 10% lower and work up in 1% increments, this load is safe in my rifle with the components used and may not be in your rifle. Be safe and not sorry.

Lapua .308 brass, 55.7 grains water capacity
IMR 8208 XBR 43.7 - 44.5 grains, .2 increments
Remington 7½ primer
Berger 185 BT-LR seated 2.990, -.015

Best accuracy was at 43.9 grains, ~2715 fps in 30", .272" 5-shot @100, no pressure signs at 44.5, 70° temps

Lapua .308 brass, 55.7 grains water capacity
IMR 8208 XBR 45.4 grains
CCI BR2 primer
Berger 155.5 FULLBORE seated 2.890, just touching

Outstanding accuracy in my 26" Pierce, ~2990 fps in 100° temps. Subsequently fired in temps 55° up with no accuracy change.

 

[Bamban]

Thank you for the information. Since not specified can I assume these are naked pills?

Them are some accurate loads.

Caution well taken.

 

[Steve Blair]

Yes, both naked.