Berger VLD report; 300 WSM

 

Although the 168s will work for an upcoming elk hunt, I`d thought I`d try some 190s or 210s for some better downrange energy and BC. My dealer had some 210s on hand so I picked them up and then began researching for a good load.

 

From the "reloadersnest" site, I found load #5221 using the 210 VLD that I duplicated with the exception of the primer. Starting at 63 gr, I worked up to the 66 grains listed and chrony`d the 66 gr load. Although nearing the max, there were no pressure signs.

 

Load #5221 on the reloaders nest site, was using the 210 gr VLD (BC .616) and was fired from a 26" barreled Savage @ 2897 fps using 66 gr RL22; COAL of 2.885" with a 0.285" grouping @ 100 yards. Well!! This particular load looked like a good one to copy and a good place to start.

 

From my Ruger compact using WLRM primers and 66 gr RL22, I received 2732 fps (- 165 fps vs the 26" barrel), with an OD 3 shot grouping of 0.343" using the 210 gr VLD. The best groupings so far with the 168 VLD is 0.321." Before trying any VLD, my previous best 3 shot grouping with 180 gr Hornady SSTs was 0.544."  For curiosity, I will try other powder combos with the 210, but don`t see how it can really get too much better than that. I guess I got real lucky with a real good first load try. With a .616 BC VLD bullet @ 2732 fps, 1900 + lbs of downrange energy @ 500 yards will be just peachy keen for elk. 

 

These VLDs when loaded properly to a rifle`s COAL sweet spot, are not only extremely accurate, but they are absolutely devastating hombres on game too!    It appears I just may have a new bullet.