Short barreled .308???

[rahtreelimbs]

I just purchused a Ruger 77 Compact with a 16 1/2 barrel. What kind of velocity can I expect with 150 and 180 grain bullets?

 

[clearwater]

with 18" barrel and 150 grainers I get between 2500 and 2700 fps.

 

[Alaska]

my favorite load is:

308 Win Rem 600

165 Sierra Gameking BTHP
IMR 4895 @ 43.6
Fed 210 Match Primer
WW Cases
2.750" COL

 

[Guy Miner]

Hodgdon publishes loading data for the single-shot pistol shooters - T/C Encore handguns and the various bolt-action hunting handguns. Here's some info on a 15" .308 Winchester that I lifted right from Hodgdon's manual:

150 gr: start = 44 Varget for 2522 fps, max = 47 Varget for 2675 fps

165 gr: start = 42 Varget for 2384 fps, max = 46 Varget for 2576 fps

180 gr: start = 41 Varget for 2274 fps, max = 45 Varget for 2480 fps

Kind of surprising velocity from a mere 15" barrel! Hope this helps. I've found Varget to be an outstanding powder for the .308 Winchester, for target shooting or hunting loads.

http://www.hodgdon.com/data/pistol/308win.php

Regards, Guy

 

[moreloader]

You will want to stick to the Varget or a similar powder. IE you should use w748 instead of w760. You want a faster powder with that short barrel. I would expect approximately 100 fps greater velocities than the loads for a 15 inch barrell. In addition I would use the Hornady data for the encore pistols or another source.

 

[Desert Fox]

My buddy has that exact rifle and it's a shooter. He had brake installed because it kicks hard. His loads consist of H4895, not sure how many grains, and Barnes 168 grain TSX.