308 Barnes Load Data: Mastering Accuracy and Performance

Understanding Barnes Bullets: The Cornerstone of Performance

Controlled Expansion

When a Barnes bullet impacts a target, the nose cavity expands, creating a large, mushroom-shaped wound channel. This controlled expansion ensures that the bullet retains a high percentage of its original weight, allowing for superior penetration, even through tough hide and bone.

Weight Retention

Because Barnes bullets don’t fragment, nearly all of the bullet’s original weight is retained upon impact. This characteristic contributes significantly to the bullet’s ability to penetrate deeply and deliver maximum energy transfer.

Terminal Performance

The combination of controlled expansion and weight retention results in devastating terminal performance, making Barnes bullets highly effective at quickly incapacitating game.

Durability

The all-copper construction also provides the bullet with increased durability, allowing it to maintain its form and integrity upon impact with various obstacles.

Barnes Bullet Lines

Barnes offers several lines of bullets in .308 caliber, each with its own unique features:

Barnes TTSX (Triple Shock X): This is a popular choice, featuring a polymer tip that initiates expansion upon impact. The TTSX design ensures rapid expansion and reliable terminal performance.

Barnes LRX (Long Range X): Designed for long-range shooting, the LRX features a streamlined profile and boat-tail base to maximize ballistic coefficient and downrange performance. The LRX offers excellent accuracy even at extended distances.

Barnes TSX (Triple Shock X): This older but still very effective design, without a polymer tip, provides similar terminal performance to the TTSX with a proven track record.

Factors for Consideration

When selecting a Barnes bullet for your .308 Winchester, consider these factors:

Hunting Application: For hunting, select a bullet weight that is appropriate for the size and type of game you’re pursuing. Heavier bullets are generally preferred for larger animals.

Desired Ballistics: Consider the range at which you intend to hunt or shoot. The LRX is optimized for longer ranges.

Rifle Twist Rate: Ensure the bullet you choose is compatible with your rifle’s twist rate. Barnes offers recommendations for the optimal twist rates for their bullets.

Accuracy Potential: Barnes bullets are known for their accuracy, but the specific load you develop will ultimately determine the accuracy of your rifle.

Choosing the Right Barnes Bullet for Your .308 Winchester

Before delving into load data, it’s crucial to understand which Barnes bullet options are readily available and which might be a good fit for your needs. While availability fluctuates, here’s a general overview:

When selecting a bullet weight, consider the intended use and range:

Lighter Bullets (e.g., 110 grains – not commonly used by Barnes in .308): Might be considered for varmint hunting or short-range target shooting, if available.

Medium-Weight Bullets (e.g., 130 grains): Provide good balance for a variety of applications. They offer a flatter trajectory and adequate energy transfer for medium-sized game.

Mid-Range/Medium-Heavy Bullets (e.g., 150 grains): A popular choice, providing excellent energy transfer for medium to large game. They offer a good balance between trajectory and stopping power.

Heavy Bullets (e.g., 165 grains, 168 grains, 175 grains, 180 grains): Ideal for larger game and longer ranges. Offer excellent downrange energy and penetration.

Gathering the Information: The Foundation of Safe Reloading

Before you even think about loading ammunition, you must thoroughly understand the reloading process. It’s crucial to learn proper techniques and, most importantly, prioritize safety. This cannot be overemphasized.

SAFETY FIRST: A Non-Negotiable Rule

Reloading ammunition is an enjoyable and rewarding pursuit, but it also carries inherent risks. Always adhere to these safety precautions:

Always wear eye protection. Protect your eyes from potential hazards, such as primer fragments or powder spills.

Reload in a well-ventilated area. This helps prevent the buildup of harmful fumes.

Keep your reloading area clean and organized. A cluttered area can lead to errors.

Double-check all measurements. Always verify powder charges, bullet seating depth, and overall cartridge length.

Never exceed published load data. Exceeding maximum loads can cause dangerous pressure spikes, damaging your firearm and causing injury.

Inspect your brass cases before reloading. Discard any cases that show signs of wear, such as cracks or bulges.

Know the signs of excessive pressure: Watch for flattened primers, difficult bolt lift, and other indicators of overpressure.

Consult multiple sources. Verify load data from various sources.

Start low and work up gradually. Begin with the minimum recommended load and increase the powder charge incrementally, observing for signs of pressure.

Reload one round at a time, especially when developing a new load. This allows for careful observation and assessment.

Never mix powders. Use only the powder specified in the load data.

Store powders and primers safely, away from heat and direct sunlight.

Where to find accurate and reliable load data:

Barnes Reloading Manual: Barnes publishes a reloading manual that provides specific load data for their bullets. This is an excellent resource to start with.

Powder Manufacturer Websites: Many powder manufacturers offer online load data for their powders.

Reputable Reloading Manuals: Sierra, Hornady, Speer, and other manufacturers offer excellent reloading manuals.

Experienced Reloaders and Forums: While you can get some help from other reloaders, cross-reference any data you obtain with reputable manuals. Always be extremely cautious.

Essential Components and the Reloading Process

Reloading involves several key steps, each with its own nuances. Mastering the process ensures safety and precision.

Case Preparation: Before reloading, clean your brass cases thoroughly. Clean brass leads to better accuracy and consistency. Inspect cases for any damage.

Priming: Installing a new primer is a critical step, and the correct primer size and type are essential to ensure proper ignition of the powder.

Powder Selection and Charging: Selecting the right powder and using a precise powder scale and powder measure are critical for consistent loads. The powder charge is carefully measured and dispensed into the case.

Bullet Seating: Using a bullet seater, seat the bullet to the specified overall cartridge length (OAL). This ensures proper chambering.

Crimping (If Applicable): Depending on the bullet and powder type, you may need to crimp the case mouth slightly to secure the bullet. Consult your reloading manual for recommendations.

Example 308 Barnes Load Data: A Starting Point

*Disclaimer: The following load data is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult with the most current reloading manuals and powder manufacturer’s data for specific and safe recommendations. Reloading is a process that demands careful attention to detail, and responsibility for the use of this data rests with the reloader. Start with the minimum recommended loads and gradually increase the powder charge while carefully observing for any signs of pressure.*

Here’s some example data, bearing in mind the above warning, showcasing different bullet weights and popular powders. Always cross-reference this data with up-to-date reloading manuals and manufacturer recommendations.

Example Load 1: 130 Grain Barnes TTSX

Example Load 2: 150 Grain Barnes TTSX

Example Load 3: 168 Grain Barnes LRX

Example Load 4: 175 Grain Barnes LRX

Analyzing the Data: Identifying and Interpreting Pressure Signs

When reloading, carefully observe your rifle and the fired cases for signs of excessive pressure. These indicators can help you avoid unsafe loads:

Flattened Primers

A primer that is flattened against the bolt face indicates that excessive pressure has forced it against the action.

Cratered Primers

A cratered primer (a raised ring around the firing pin impression) can also indicate overpressure.

Difficult Bolt Lift

If the bolt is hard to lift after firing, it’s often a sign of excessive pressure.

Ejector Marks

Look for ejector marks (slight indentations on the case head) that indicate that the brass is being forced against the ejector.

Case Head Expansion

Measure the base of the case, just above the case head. Excessive expansion may indicate that your load is too high.

Tips for Achieving Accuracy: Fine-Tuning Your Loads

Beyond following load data, there are several things you can do to maximize accuracy:

Consistency is Key

Establish a consistent reloading process. This includes consistent case preparation, powder charging, and bullet seating.

Experiment with Seating Depth

Seating depth (the distance the bullet is seated into the case) can significantly impact accuracy. Experiment with different seating depths in small increments to find the optimal setting for your rifle.

Choose the Right Powder

Some powders perform better with certain bullet weights. Consult your reloading manual or experienced reloaders for recommendations.

Consider Environmental Factors

Temperature, altitude, and humidity can influence the performance of your ammunition. Make necessary adjustments.

Putting It All Together: The Path to Precision

Developing accurate 308 Barnes loads requires a systematic approach, a commitment to safety, and careful attention to detail. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to achieving exceptional results with your .308 Winchester rifle.

Resources

Barnes Reloading Manual (if available).

Hodgdon Powder Company Website

IMR Powder Website

Sierra Bullets Reloading Manual

Hornady Reloading Handbook