300 Blackout range report

[Hatchdog]

I went to the range yesterday do do a powder/bullet combination test. I loaded four different bullets using three different powers and shot all the combinations for group. I had acceptable accuracy with all four bullets but have reduced my choice to two, the Speer 125 TNT-HP and the Hornady 155 FMJ-BT. I’ll probably load more of each for a final test. (out of the 155’s now but I use it in my M1-A so I’ll order more) Interesting observation was the 2400 loads were the most mild in sound and felt recoil. The 1680 was the most stout and the difference was very noticeable. This was the same across all bullet weights. For further testing I’m going to limit myself to 296 and AA1680 as 2400 is so hard to find right now. (Went to a small gunshow today and found two pounds for $ 49 ea. Left them there.)

I like the Speer TNT as it’s reported that at 300 BO velocities it mushrooms much like a big game bullet and does not explode like a varmint bullet is designed to do. This will be handy if that wild pig invasion from Canada happens.

Here’s a few examples of some targets and every load listed below grouped at 1.5” or better. 50 degrees with sunny skies and minimal wind. I need a more powerful scope as the 4x on it washes out at 100 yards. Mostly I just tried to hold so all of the orange circle was completely blacked out by the crosshairs. Not exactly precision shooting. Shot from a bench with sandbags.

2E552319-3C74-40C3-9FC5-6F34082B7205.jpeg (2.92 MiB) Viewed 1117 times

16467BE2-D02F-4132-98E2-28EA47E20B59.jpeg (3.37 MiB) Viewed 1117 times

C1F20A1F-37C5-4A82-823C-104EF50F2E72.jpeg (3.57 MiB) Viewed 1117 times

FCBBD489-D793-456B-91B9-0B9D8518C2D6.jpeg (3.65 MiB) Viewed 1117 times

2E552319-3C74-40C3-9FC5-6F34082B7205.jpeg (2.92 MiB) Viewed 1117 times

[Vaquero]

There's some decent groups there, that 296 and the 155's seemed to go good together.
Got to start somewhere, and sure it was a good day at the range.

RP

[DsGrouse]

what twist is your barrel? Those groups are nice. I can't seem to get decent groups when shooting bullets from 130grn to 170grain range. 110-125, and 180 to 220 are gtg. but that middle bit spreads my groups out considerably.

[BigAl52]

I had some good luck with the Hornady FMJ in the 147 gr range with 296. Never had any 1680 to try but alot of guys like that powder. I will be watching Hatch I see where you mentioned you are going to push the 125 to 17 gr.

[Hatchdog]

what twist is your barrel? Those groups are nice. I can't seem to get decent groups when shooting bullets from 130grn to 170grain range. 110-125, and 180 to 220 are gtg. but that middle bit spreads my groups out considerably.

It’s a 1:7 typical 16” AR 15 barrel. It shot the 110 great with 296 but I want to go with a heavier bullet. It also shot the Hornady 125’s as well as the Speer’s but I like the bullet style on the Speer better than the Hornady which is a FMJ. Just in case I ever want to hunt with it, you know.,

I know with a more powerful scope I can tighten up those groups a bit but really for what my plan is with this rifle it’s fine as is.

[fortyshooter]

Looking good Hatch! Around here 49 bucks for 2400 powder would be a blessing! Haven't seen any in a long while.

[Hatchdog]

Looking good Hatch! Around here 49 bucks for 2400 powder would be a blessing! Haven't seen any in a long while.

Yes, this is the first I’ve seen around here too. I probably should have grabbed a pound but it’s hard to pay those prices. But really, in the big picture what’s a couple of bucks more for something that brings so much pleasure. I just got to get over my pig-headness.

[Vaquero]

Hey Hatch, that's what I had to pay for the last 2 lbs. that I picked up last month.
I just decided to get while the getting was good.

RP