So I decided to try a different load from the factory match ammo and hand load a few. This is a brand new 12 LRP with 81 rounds down the pipe before today. We loaded up a batch of factory spec 140 grain A-Max (with the exception being the primer - I used CCI 200 large primers instead of the Federal 210). I then used 5 Sierra Match King 142 grains with the same exact loading specs. Look at the results at a laser confirmed 100 yards! That's 2 x 2 bugholes and 1 in between.
So the exact load is this:
Once fired factory brass, sized as usual - neck tolerance about 3-4 thousands based off the Hornady 'standard' dies - not 'match' dies, no internal neck mandrel sizing
CCI 200 large rifle primer
Hodgson H4350 powder - 41.5 grains +/- 1/10th of grain
Sierra Match King 142 grain 6.5mm projectile
COAL = 2.810" (exactly factory spec - interesting)
I have done absolutely nothing to this rifle. No bedding, trigger bone stock, everything bone stock. I am amazed by these results. I can only hope the 142 SMK will perform as well at 4/5/6/700 yards.
The factory match ammo clone shot well at about .75 MOA but the SMK's were amazing at this distance. It could be that the two will even out as I stretch the distance but ****...the SMK's blew me out of the water. What a great starting point for a cartridge and rifle!
If anyone is on the fence about the accuracy of these rifles in 6.5 Creedmoor, jump on the train. For reference, I shot between .5 and 1 MOA with the factory load. The SMK's have improved that considerably at 100 yards. I'll post back with more info once I get to the range and stretch it out. Who knows, the factory load could be better at longer distances...
Edit - I have to give credit - it was not me shooting this group, it was my amazing shooter friend. I can only hope to shoot these types of groups in the future. Fortunately, he's taken me under his wing.
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