Reader question, asked August 2025
Short answer: Start with 69 to 77 grain match ammo. A 1:7 twist barrel stabilizes heavy bullets well, and they usually group best.
The details
- Good loads to test: Federal Gold Medal Match 69 gr or 77 gr Sierra MatchKing, Black Hills 77 gr OTM, and Hornady 75 gr BTHP.
- Every barrel has its own favorite. Buy a box or two of each and shoot 5-shot groups at 100 yards from a solid rest.
- Expect about 1.5 to 3 MOA from a typical carbine, and better if your barrel likes the load.
- Heavier bullets also hold up better against wind past 300 yards.
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