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.