[westpointranger]

I was reading "Poor Man's Sniper Rifle" about choosing ammo. The author said (of course) that match grade was best, then handloads, then mil-surp, and hunting ammo as a last resort. I always thought you should use hunting first and use mil-surp as a last resort. I always assumed hunting ammo was more accurate than mil-surp, but I never did anything to test it. I realise that some mil-surp is better than others, so let's assume we're dealing with good mil-surp. Do ya'll prefer mil-surp or hunting ammo for accuracy?

 

[spade]

for accuracy, theres alot of hunting ammo id rather use than mil-surp... depending on the caliber and range of course.

 

[mlammers]

Have to agree with spade, I have used plain Rem 130CL in 270Win, and gotten MOA or Better, never got that with Milsurp, except M118

 

[Spoon]

Handloads are without a doubt the most accurate. I think he got that backwards with match ammo. I have also found hunting ammo to be more accurate then mil. surplus. At least in .223

 

[spade]

i would lump handloads in with match ammo... but then again i guess it doesnt have to be.

 

[Jeff_850]

there is some hunting ammo thats shitty and i'd take military surplus over it
there is some hunting ammo thats almost match grade though
and most surplus cant hit the broad side of a barn but others can shoot moa or better.. depends on its age and how much the gun likes/hates

 

[terry beaird]

I have to agree with spoon. I don't think match grade ammo can compete with a quality handload tuned for your rifle. Rifles are individuals. Some high quality rifles do not shoot some of the high quality match loads well. But, with a little expermentation you can usually find a good handload that will surpass a lot of match loads, providing you are using quality components and reloading equipment.

 

[Scharfschütze]

Taking up the free-bore is a good way to add some fps and accuracy in my opinion. The bullet loads more consistent, and has a repeatable transition to the press of the barrel.
All factory ammo is built to a safe OAL to fit in all weapons.

 

[No.4Mk1]

I'm not 100% on this bit I think alot of benchrest shooters fire form there cases so the case size it what fits there particular chamber giving them a tighter fit and less case expansion. I personally think that if you use quality equipment and proper procedure that handloads will be superior.