Thread: .223 handloads v factory loads

I did some 5 shot velocity tests with my Pro Chrono today to confirm the similarity of my handloads to factory so that I can use either without change of zero. My rifle is a 1:8 Tikka T3X CTR with a 20" barrel. The following results were obtained;

Fiocchi factory, 69 grain Sierra BTHP, average 2823 fps, ES 66
GGG factory, 69 grain Sierra BTHP, average 2777 fps, ES 75
Handload, 69 grain Sierra BTHP, 23.5 grains ADI Benchmark 2, average 2799, ES 46

I am happy with that. All 3 loads are sub MOA and my handloads are 0.5 MOA. Off the bipod I can comfortably take rabbits at 350 metres, and the 69 grain Sierras kill goats very well. Interestingly, the same handloads in my old 1:7 Ranger AR15 (now no more) shot 0.3 MOA.

do all three still hit same POI??? if reading that right worst is say 2735---2850 so 120ish between all loads ??? will still be more than a dead rabbit or goat in my book.

Originally Posted by Micky Duck

do all three still hit same POI??? if reading that right worst is say 2735---2850 so 120ish between all loads ??? will still be more than a dead rabbit or goat in my book.

Probably based on my T3.
GPM.

The difference in the MPI of the three loads was negligible at 100 metres. On the hill I tend to use Kentucky windage to suit the conditions in the event of a miss, although I wind on the range according to my range finder before shooting.