Ballistic Tip 165 vs. 168 Grain

[Guest]

I've been toying with the idea of trying the 168 BT in my 30-06 since I'm in the process of developing a load with the 165, some results have been promising.

Has any one had any experiences with these two bullets with a 30-06. My gun is a Rem. 700 22" barrel with 1:10 twist, could there possibly be a benefit in going to the 168 given the rate of twist in this barrel or are both these bullets pretty much the same?

Thanks,
Don

 

[Antelope_Sniper]

It's a 2% difference.
You could probably shoot them in the same group and not be able to tell the difference.

 

[Guest]

Doesn't seem worth the expense with 2% difference. Your info is helpful.

Thank-You
Don

 

[Guest]

I think the primary differences between the 165gr and 168gr BT's is the overall profile of the nose of the bullet. Consider that the BC's are .475 and .490, respectively. From all angles, it appears the 168gr has a shorter bearing surface, as well, and certainly it has a longer nose profile. Other than that, I think on-game performance is going to be within a hairs breadth of one another. I'm about to try the 168's in my 30-06, along with the 125gr BT's, if I can ever get around to loading some and going to the range. Work is really crimping my lifestyle right now!

 

[Guest]

You know my initial thinking was the 168 might give me better groups considering the 1:10 rate of twist being a little heavier not jumping up to 180 grain.

 

[Antelope_Sniper]

Don, I'm with you.
With BT's I like to keep my velocity near that 2900-3000 sweet spot. If my gun shot the 165's well, I probably wouldn't worry about it, but if it didn't, I'd try the 168's.
If I had a .30 cal magnums that could throw the 180's at 3k, I'd certainly try it.

 

[Guest]

I'm close to 2800 fps with the 165 and initial two shot groups are promising. I just can't seem to get out of my head the 168 bullet. I sort of remember an article written, this guy stating the 1:10 twist barrels are better suited for 165 and heavier bullets. The reason my thoughts would be to try the 168. I don't really care about gaining more energy or speed, just a little edge on accuracy with the right combination. I know bullet seating is critical in POI as well.

I may give them a try after all.

Don

 

[JD338]

DON

The 168 gr BT is an excellent bullet for the 30-06. The higher BC makes it an ideal bullet for longer range.

JD338

 

[Guest]

Thanks, my thoughts too.

Don