The .308 Winchester remains a popular and versatile cartridge, favored by hunters, target shooters, and military personnel alike. Choosing the right powder is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy and performance, and H335 has established itself as a reliable and frequently used powder for this caliber. This article will delve into the specifics of using H335 with the .308 Winchester, providing detailed information on load data, safety precautions, and factors influencing optimal performance.
Understanding H335 Powder
H335, manufactured by Hodgdon, is an extruded, cylindrical propellant known for its burn rate and consistency. Its moderate burn rate makes it well-suited for a wide range of .308 Winchester bullet weights, from lighter varmint rounds to heavier hunting projectiles. This versatility contributes to its widespread popularity among reloaders. The powder's consistent burn rate leads to reduced pressure fluctuations, resulting in improved accuracy and reduced recoil.
Key Considerations for H335 .308 Winchester Loads
Before delving into specific load data, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of safety. Always consult the latest reloading manuals from reputable manufacturers like Hodgdon, Alliant, or Sierra. These manuals provide comprehensive load data specific to your chosen components, including powder, primers, bullets, and brass. Never deviate from these recommendations without extensive experience and a deep understanding of reloading principles.
Factors Affecting Load Data:
Several factors can significantly impact the optimal load data for your specific setup:
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Bullet Weight: Heavier bullets generally require more powder to achieve optimal velocity. Lighter bullets will require less. This relationship isn't always linear, however, and careful adherence to loading manuals is essential.
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Bullet Type: The bullet's design (e.g., boat tail, flat base) affects its ballistic coefficient and, consequently, the pressure generated within the cartridge. Load data needs to be adjusted accordingly.
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Primer Type: While subtle, the primer type can affect ignition characteristics and consequently, pressure. Using the recommended primer type in your loading manual is crucial.
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Brass Type: Different manufacturers' brass may have slightly varying dimensions, influencing internal case volume and pressure.
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Environmental Conditions: Temperature and humidity can impact powder burn rate. Hotter temperatures typically lead to higher pressures.
Sample Load Data (Illustrative Purposes Only)
It is absolutely critical to understand that the following data is for illustrative purposes only and should not be used without consulting your reloading manual. This data is not a substitute for safe reloading practices and thorough research.
(Note: The following is example data, and may not be appropriate for your specific components. Always consult a reliable reloading manual.)
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Bullet Type | Powder Charge (grains) | Primer | COL (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | FMJ | 43.0 | Federal 210M | 2.800 |
| 168 | Match King | 42.0 | CCI 200 | 2.810 |
Developing Your Own Loads
Even with published load data as a starting point, developing your own loads requires careful experimentation and meticulous record-keeping. Start at the minimum charge listed in your reloading manual and work your way up in small increments. Chronographing your loads will help you determine velocity and consistency. Always carefully inspect your brass and cases for signs of excessive pressure after each firing.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety when reloading ammunition. Never exceed maximum recommended load data, and always exercise extreme caution.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information on .308 Winchester reloading using H335 powder. The author and publisher are not responsible for any injury or damage resulting from the misuse of this information. Always consult reputable reloading manuals and adhere to safe reloading practices. This information should be considered supplemental to, and not a replacement for, thorough research and proper training.
