I have several 308's including one or the Ruger American Predators. My go-to load is either 47 gr of Varget with various 150 gr bullets or 46 gr with various 165 gr bullets. I use mostly Hornady Interlocks, SST's or Noslers Accubond or Balllistic Tips.
That is a max charge, that delivers 2850-2880 fps with most 150's and about 2760ish with 165's from the 22" guns. Subtract about 75-100 fps from the shorter 18" barrel on the Predator. I'd advise starting lower and working up for another rifle.
I've played around with 130 gr Barnes TTSX's at 3050 fps as well as some of the 155 and 168 gr Berger hunting bullets. All are very accurate, but I've yet to kill any game with the Barnes or Berger bullets.
The 308 is the easiest round I've found to load for. I've never tried a load that wasn't good. I like Varget slightly better because it is far less sensitive to temperature changes than most powder. But I've gotten equal accuracy and speed with several other powders including 4895, 4064, 3031, TAC, and RL15.
I have other, nicer rifles than the Ruger. But they don't shoot a bit better. The American is my knock around rifle that I don't worry about throwing in the ATV etc. or having it stolen from camp or a vehicle. But it is also my 1st choice if someone is asking advice on the best budget rifle. I think you'll like it.
