Is there a noticeable difference between factory and handloaded .308?

Handloaded Ammunition Characteristics

Handloaded .308 ammunition offers superior accuracy, with some shooters reporting groupings as small as 0.2 inches at 100 yards. This level of precision is often unachievable with factory-loaded rounds. Handloading also allows for precise control over bullet weight, shape, and type, enabling shooters to tailor their ammunition to specific hunting situations. For instance, a 150-grain bullet may be preferred for longer shots, while a 180-grain bullet is better suited for closer ranges.

Factory Ammunition Advantages

While handloaded ammunition excels in accuracy, factory-loaded .308 rounds offer convenience, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Many factory loads are designed to perform consistently across a range of shotguns and rifles, making them a reliable choice for hunting. Additionally, factory ammunition is readily available in most gun stores, and the cost per round is often lower than handloaded ammunition. For example, a 5-round box of Remington Ultimate Defense .308 costs around $25, whereas a handloaded 5-round batch of the same caliber can cost upwards of $30.

Ballistic Performance Comparison

A comparison of ballistic performance between handloaded and factory .308 ammunition reveals some interesting differences. For instance, a handloaded 150-grain bullet traveling at 2,700 feet per second will exhibit a slightly flatter trajectory than a factory-loaded 150-grain bullet traveling at 2,600 feet per second. However, the difference in terminal performance is often minimal, and the choice between handloaded and factory ammunition ultimately depends on the shooter’s priorities.