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NWPilgrim · January 21, 2013, 08:53 PM

Hornady manual has specific load data for the Garand.

Most loads are going to be around 46.0 gr for medium powders and 168 gr bullets. In fact 46.0 gr is my most accurate load for both Varget and H4895 with 168 gr SMK.

A general rule of thumb I've read is use a medium powder between H4895 and IMR4320 and keep velocity at or below 2,700fps with a 150 gr bullet. From the load tables that works out to about 2,600fps with 168 gr bullets. Only use that as a sanity check guide not an absolute. Definitely want to start lower and work up as usual. No need to beat up your Garand so start low and find an accurate load and do not try to push the maximum end of the envelope.

January 21, 2013, 08:53 PM	#5
NWPilgrim Senior Member Join Date: September 29, 2008 Location: Oregon Posts: 2,346	Hornady manual has specific load data for the Garand. Most loads are going to be around 46.0 gr for medium powders and 168 gr bullets. In fact 46.0 gr is my most accurate load for both Varget and H4895 with 168 gr SMK. A general rule of thumb I've read is use a medium powder between H4895 and IMR4320 and keep velocity at or below 2,700fps with a 150 gr bullet. From the load tables that works out to about 2,600fps with 168 gr bullets. Only use that as a sanity check guide not an absolute. Definitely want to start lower and work up as usual. No need to beat up your Garand so start low and find an accurate load and do not try to push the maximum end of the envelope. __________________ "The ultimate authority ... resides in the people alone. ... The advantage of being armed, which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation ... forms a barrier against the enterprises of ambition." - James Madison