Decided to try a new Rifle 6.8 Western

[Jnasa]

Well, back in January I purchased a new rifle. Cabelas had a clearance on a Browning X bolt. That combined with some points I had I decided to pull the trigger. I went with the 6.8 Western for something different

All my other rifles have been more traditional. 270 win, 308, 243, 7x57 Mauser, 300 Win Mag. I decided something different would be fun to try. I look forward to reloading something a bit different.

Due to circumstances I didn't shoot it this spring. Finally got it out to the range last weekend. Did the barrel break in and shot a couple more groups. Hopefully headed out soon for more range time.

 

[TN2shot07]

The only complaint I’ve heard about the 6.8 western is the lack of rifles/ammo options. If Hornady had designed the same thing and marketed it the cartridge would probably be killing it right now. You probably got a good one, 7 prc performance in a short action!

 

[mtmuley]

Well, back in January I purchased a new rifle. Cabelas had a clearance on a Browning X bolt. That combined with some points I had I decided to pull the trigger. I went with the 6.8 Western for something different

All my other rifles have been more traditional. 270 win, 308, 243, 7x57 Mauser, 300 Win Mag. I decided something different would be fun to try. I look forward to reloading something a bit different.

Due to circumstances I didn't shoot it this spring. Finally got it out to the range last weekend. Did the barrel break in and shot a couple more groups. Hopefully headed out soon for more range time.

Twist? mtmuley

 

[Potsie]

I like the cartridge. I’m considering using it as a starting point for my first entry into the wildcat world.

 

[6mm Remington]

Essentially if I am correct, but the 6.8 Western is essentially the 270 WSM with a longer chamber throat and faster rifling to handle longer heavier bullets. The 270 WSM is an excellent cartridge and I think you will be pleased with the 6.8 Western. Lets see some of your loads how they shoot when you get them worked up. I bet you cannot wait until fall to get it out to hunt with.

 

[Dan-06]

I also have a 6.8 western. I like it but I’m a hand loader. The 165 grain accubonds loaded with vv n568 is a great combo. Good luck.

 

[TN2shot07]

I also have a 6.8 western. I like it but I’m a hand loader. The 165 grain accubonds loaded with vv n568 is a great combo. Good luck.

Accubond long range?

 

[Dan-06]

Yes.

 

[mtmuley]

Accubond long range?

Careful with those at closer ranges. mtmuley

 

[Dan-06]

Careful with those at closer ranges. mtmuley

And anything under 300 yards is considered closer range. Actually the wife shot an elk at close range and it went in and out with little explanation.

 

[TN2shot07]

Careful with those at closer ranges. mtmuley

I have an 8 twist on my 270, was considering playing with some. I don’t think it would push them fast enough to have the issues some people have had up close

 

[mtmuley]

And anything under 300 yards is considered closer range. Actually the wife shot an elk at close range and it went in and out with little explanation.

I shot a bull at about 80 yards or so. 210 ABLR 3150 fps muzzle velocity. Frontal shot impact at the neck chest area. Didn't kill him. Finished with a hand gun. I have pieces of the bullet I think. Blew up. He would have died. Killed two antelope same load. Both over 350. Worked great. mtmuley

 

[Dan-06]

I shot a bull at about 80 yards or so. 210 ABLR 3150 fps muzzle velocity. Frontal shot impact at the neck chest area. Didn't kill him. Finished with a hand gun. I have pieces of the bullet I think. Blew up. He would have died. Killed two antelope same load. Both over 350. Worked great. mtmuley

That’s about my experience too.

 

[Jnasa]

Twist? mtmuley

1:7.5

 

[Jnasa]

My only complaint so far with 6.8 Western is lack of ammo options. Not much in stock. I was aware it would be a challenge but I like reloading anyway so planned on that.

Second Complaint is that it doesn't look like Winchester offered component Brass. I bit the bullet and bought ADG brass. I'm told it's great and it better be for the price. First loading no issue so time will tell.

Bought Sierra Tipped Game Kings 175 grain, Nosler ABLR seconds 165 grain, and some Barnes LRX 155 grain. Plan is to hunt with the Barnes but wanted to work up something else also. I am actually tempted to try Hammers but may hold of on that for a bit.

I want to enjoy the process and work up different loads for this rifle. I need some trigger time on it so should be fun.

 

[Jnasa]

I thought I was busy today but plans changed. I was able to run out to the range for a few hours.

I shot some factory Winchester Copper Impact I bought on Gunbrooker. I was surprised how well it shot ~3/4". Then I started shooting some Nosler ABLR reloads. I run out of time so didn't get through my last two charge weights. Velecities weren't where I would like but accuracy was excellent. First two right at .6". The third charge I tried shooting a 5 shot but it string out. First three were around 3/4". Not sure the ABLR is what I want to go with. However, since they don't offer a heavy Accubond in .277 I thought I'd try them. I've heard they can be more finicky. So far accuracy has been great.

With this rifle I think I'll need to stick to 3 shot groups. Starts heating up pretty quick.

Next up is some of the Sierra Tipped Game Kings. After that I'll play with some Barnes LRX.

 

[Jnasa]

Copper Impact (bottom group I pulled one). Top held it together.

 

[Jnasa]