Trekker
Active Member
My experience with service grade ammo (LC and PMC) in 30-06 out of my Garand 3" groups at 100 yards is a sure thing. On the last two times out using the DCM sourced PMC I shoot sub 2" groups. I was really seeing the sights well and I getting a good consistent hold on the rifle. I hear the Grrek stuff is comparable but have no personal experience with it.
Experience with the Russian steel case 223, about 3" group potential at 100 yards and about 3" off the POI of good reloads and Federal 223 55gr FMJBT.
Others' and your mileage may vary.
You didn't indicate in your initial post that you were already a reloader - I'm surprised that you asked the question if you are already well versed in the benefits, cost, performance and hand tailoring, that reloading provides. To me it's a no brainier - I don't currently shoot rifle at all, but if/when I start up, I will tool up for it regardless of whether or not it will save me any money - I'd rather shoot reloads than factory ammo any day.
Trickg, It was a matter of experience and knowledge in different areas, even if there are a number of similarities. Given my past history with reloading pistol rounds, for .45/.38/.357 I know exactly what I want in terms of bullet/primer/powder and what is an acceptable price. However, for .223 where I have not accumulated knowledge or experience, I would just assume the common 55gr. bullet is fine and would need to scope out prices at various internet sites, gun shows, etc. to get a feel for common price. Even then, the common price currently available might be X cents, but through discussion here on MDS I might get advised that certain sources are cheaper or have periodic sales, or that brand Y bullets are better than brand Z bullets.
Magnumite's input is rather valuable to me, since about 100 yards is likely where I will be taking my rifles in the meantime. 3" at 100 yards is quite acceptable to me at the moment, so that assists my decision whether to reload or buy currently for .223 and .30-06. I am stubborn about using iron sights, though this doesn't always work well with my nearsightedness. At the pistol range I put a red dot sticker (like at garage sales) in the middle of targets and then can at 25 yards tell where the center is. At the pistol range I want to stack my shots atop each other in the X ring. Currently for my rifles, at 100 yards with iron sights and less than perfect vision, going for a 3" group around the target center is acceptable. When and if I get more serious with the rifles (probably putting on a scope), then handloading for rifle will take more precedence.