I recently purchased 1000 69 grain Nosler HPBT's (they were on sale - NOT seconds). My 12FV liked the Sierra 69's so much, I could not pass up the sale.
Nearly one hole in five shots. I am getting a touch more velocity due to the FV's barrel length. 25.6 had a hint of the Fed 205M primer just barely cupping. 25.8 had the same hint of primer cupping and the bolt was a smidge heavy on lift up - just barely able to notice.
25.0 - 2948
25.2 - 3042
25.4 - 3046
25.6 - 3044
25.8 - 3117
I believe the "node" is 25.2 to 25.6. I loaded 30 rounds at 24.8 grains of H4895.
69 GR. SIE HPBT 69 H4895 .224" 2.235"
24.0 2870 41,100 CUP
26.0C 3069 49,700 CUP
This is my first centerfire varmint rifle - two + years old and 2500 + rounds. My 17 year old son FINALLY went to the range with me today. Don't know why, he was never interested in shooting. He shot his 22 LR for 50 rounds or so and then I sat my 223 on his bags. Handed him some rounds and pointed to targets to shoot. The rounds are some of my last AA2230C rounds - I KNOW where they will hit to 500 yards. I told him - 2.5" high at 100 yards is where the rifle is sighted in.
He positively took out a couple of 12" steel plates at 100 yards (69 grain bullets do that with authority). His eyes were wide open and a big grin appeared.
Next, I said, the 6" lead chicken. Bang - done.
Next - there is a 12" x 8" plastic jug at 300 yards - see it? Yep....one shot....done deal.
It is truly amazing watching somebody that has not shot that much start taking out targets at whim. If he only knew what it took to get there.
12 FV - $425
Scope - Nikko Stirling 6-24x56 mildots - I got a screaming deal on it - $139
Mounts/Bases - $30
Choate Ultimate Varminter - $115
Total - $709
Look on his face when the 100 yard chicken and 300 yard plastic jug disappeared - PRICELESS!
Can we go again dad?
YEP!
