How Does Bullet Selection Affect The Performance Of Handloads?

Choosing the Right Bullet for Handloads

When selecting a bullet for handloads, consider the intended use and the cartridge’s capabilities. For example, a 6.5 Creedmoor can be effectively loaded with bullets ranging from 120 to 150 grains, but the optimal choice depends on the target and the shooter’s preferences. A heavier bullet, like the 140-grain Sierra MatchKing, may be suitable for long-range target shooting, while a lighter bullet, like the 120-grain Hornady V-Max, may be better suited for hunting small game.

Bullet Weight and Expansion

Bullet weight and expansion characteristics also play a critical role in handload performance. A heavier bullet typically requires more propellant to achieve the same velocity, which can affect accuracy and recoil. In contrast, a lighter bullet may require less propellant, but may not expand properly upon impact, leading to reduced effectiveness. For example, a 150-grain bullet designed for hunting may expand to 0.7 inches at 1,000 feet per second, while a 120-grain bullet may not expand at all.

Factory vs Handload Performance

Factory ammunition often uses a proprietary blend of propellant and bullet design that may not be replicable in handloads. However, with careful selection of bullet and propellant, handloads can often match or surpass factory performance. For instance, a handloaded 6.5 Creedmoor with a 140-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet and 46.5 grains of Varget powder can achieve a velocity of 2,850 feet per second, comparable to some factory loads. By understanding the intricacies of bullet selection and handloading, shooters can create customized loads that meet their specific needs and preferences.