Remarks:
I tested all of the factory loads that I have been able to find so far in order to get a baseline performance for me to compare my handloads to.
Objective:
This rifle will be my primary hog hunting rifle. For this setup, my goal is to develop a hunting load that is effective in the 100-150 yard range as most of my shots on hogs will be less than 100 yards. With this caliber, I need to achieve Muzzle Velocities in the 2,000 fps range to ensure the bullet will deliver at least 1,000 ft/lbs of energy past 100 yards.
Conditions:
- Date: 4/13/22
- Temperature: 80F
Firearm:
- Barrel: Faxon Gunner 12.5” 1:16 Twist
- Upper: Aero Precision XL
- Lower: Ruger
- Lower Parts: CMMG
- Trigger: Ruger Elite 452
Factory Loads Tested:
- Winchester 145gr FMJ
G1 B.C.: 0.183
COL.: 2.10 (avg)
CBTO: 1.781 (avg) - Winchester 150gr Deer Season XP
G1 B.C.: 0.223
COL.: 2.251 (avg)
CBTO: 1.742 (avg) - Winchester 160gr Defender
G1 B.C.: 0.202
COL.: 2.185 (avg)
CBTO: 1.795 (avg) - Hornady 170gr Whitetail SP
G1 B.C.: 0.215
COL.: 2.238 (avg)
CBTO: 1.748(avg) - Winchester 180gr Power Point
G1 B.C.: 0.221
COL.: 2.15 (avg)
CBTO: 1.785(avg) - Chronograph: Caldwell Ballistic Precision
Results:
- Bullet Performance
- Winchester 145gr FMJ
- Winchester 150gr Deer Season XP
- Winchester 160gr Defender
- Hornady 170gr Whitetail SP
- Winchester 180gr Power Point
- Optimal Ballistics Table
- Optimal Bullet Drop
Summary:
It was interesting to see how poorly the factory loads performed except for the WIN 160g Defender ammunition. I felt like I was having a decent shooting day and at the time, I thought these groups were going to be better. I will admit that I think the flyer with the HRN 170g SP was my fault. I will retest this load to confirm but this is probably the round I would use for hunting.