Is It Necessary To Chronograph Handloads Before A Hunt?

Understanding Factory Ammunition Performance

Factory ammunition is formulated to meet specific performance standards, but these standards may not align with your specific rifle and hunting conditions. Factory ammo often has a slightly higher velocity than handloads, which can result in more kinetic energy being deposited into the target. However, this excess energy can also lead to more recoil and potential over-penetration.

Handload Performance and Chronographing

Handloaded ammunition allows for precise control over the variables that affect performance, such as powder charge, bullet weight, and seating depth. Chronographing handloads helps identify any potential issues, such as over- or under-performance, and allows for adjustments to be made before hunting. A good starting point for chronographing is to aim for a velocity within 10-20 fps of the factory ammo’s stated velocity. For example, if the factory ammo is listed at 2,800 fps, a handload should be aimed at 2,780-2,820 fps.

Practical Considerations for Hunters

In a hunting scenario, it’s often not feasible or safe to chronograph your handloads in the field. Instead, a more practical approach is to test and chrono your handloads on a shooting range or at home, and then use those results to inform your hunting preparations. Additionally, consider using a handload that is slightly conservative in terms of velocity, rather than pushing the limits of your rifle’s performance. This approach will help ensure safe and accurate performance in the field.