Is there a difference in accuracy between factory and handloads?

The Art of Handloading

When it comes to the 6mm ARC in an AR-15, handloading can offer significant advantages in terms of precision and cost-effectiveness. By carefully selecting and combining the right components, including bullets, powder, and primers, handloaders can create ammunition that shoots to tighter groups and performs consistently. For example, a well-loaded 6mm ARC round can deliver sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards, which is comparable to or even surpasses the accuracy of factory ammunition.

The Science Behind the Difference

The difference in accuracy between factory and handloads lies in the control and precision that handloaders have over the loading process. Factory ammunition is made in high-volume production runs, which can result in slight variations in bullet weight, powder charge, and primer strike. These variations can add up to a noticeable decrease in accuracy. In contrast, handloaders can carefully measure and control every aspect of the loading process, ensuring that each round is identical and precise. By using a chronograph to measure bullet velocity, for example, handloaders can accurately determine the optimal powder charge for their specific load, which can result in tighter groups and more consistent performance.

The 6mm ARC in Handload Form

For the 6mm ARC in an AR-15, a well-handloaded round can deliver exceptional accuracy and performance. One popular loading for the 6mm ARC is the 77-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet, which can be loaded to deliver velocities of around 2,800-2,900 fps with a 40-grain powder charge. This load has been known to deliver sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards, making it a popular choice among competitive shooters and precision enthusiasts. By carefully selecting and loading the right components, handloaders can create ammunition that is both accurate and cost-effective.