Pond James Pond
New member
One rule seems constant: The more I learn the more I need to learn!
What I would like is a basics intro into the hardware needed to achieve in L.R. shooting.
I know that there is no substitute for training and practice and/or innate aptitude, etc, but undeniably there is also the choice of tool and this is where I’d like some clarity on the general principles.
I imagine that this all varies with calibre, but in my case all these points revolve around the .308
So let’s start with the rifle. So far I have worked out that bolt is better than semi.
Barrel length: when is long too long?
Match barrel or standard, fluted or straight?
What effect does twist rate have, and so which is ideal or which should i avoid?
I imagine the tighter the helix, the more stable the bullet, but presumably that also reduces muzzle velocity
What about the bullet? I know that a higher BC is better, but…
Long and heavy or light and short?
HP or FMJ?
BT or not?
Velocity?
Logic suggests, to me at least, that faster is better.
But is this the case, and if so, is there a point where speed becomes counter productive?
Now, I know many will be pulling their hair, explaining that it isn’t so simple so as to compress into a few lines.
I accept and respect that, but we all need to start somewhere and if I have some idea of the principles involved then at least I can start getting an idea of when a rifle or cartridge, bullet or powder charge is a good choice or not.
Think of this as a general tick-box list for a generic rifle that you could complete in order to get a rifle and cartridge better suited to long range shooting than not. The options I have provided are not limiting: add to them or dismiss them if not suitable!
So, if you answer, then thanks in advance for indulging me!!
What I would like is a basics intro into the hardware needed to achieve in L.R. shooting.
I know that there is no substitute for training and practice and/or innate aptitude, etc, but undeniably there is also the choice of tool and this is where I’d like some clarity on the general principles.
I imagine that this all varies with calibre, but in my case all these points revolve around the .308
So let’s start with the rifle. So far I have worked out that bolt is better than semi.
Barrel length: when is long too long?
Match barrel or standard, fluted or straight?
What effect does twist rate have, and so which is ideal or which should i avoid?
I imagine the tighter the helix, the more stable the bullet, but presumably that also reduces muzzle velocity
What about the bullet? I know that a higher BC is better, but…
Long and heavy or light and short?
HP or FMJ?
BT or not?
Velocity?
Logic suggests, to me at least, that faster is better.
But is this the case, and if so, is there a point where speed becomes counter productive?
Now, I know many will be pulling their hair, explaining that it isn’t so simple so as to compress into a few lines.
I accept and respect that, but we all need to start somewhere and if I have some idea of the principles involved then at least I can start getting an idea of when a rifle or cartridge, bullet or powder charge is a good choice or not.
Think of this as a general tick-box list for a generic rifle that you could complete in order to get a rifle and cartridge better suited to long range shooting than not. The options I have provided are not limiting: add to them or dismiss them if not suitable!
So, if you answer, then thanks in advance for indulging me!!