Sako S20 .308

[tjm160]

I was leaning towards a 6.5CM as my main deer rifle. However, just looking at ammo prices with the local RFD, the availability (and cost) of non-lead (noting there seems to be a lot of chatter on the forum around a likely forthcoming ban on lead?), I'm back firmly with .308 for much greater flexibility in ammo options and lower cost. I like the idea of handloading myself, but just don't have the wherewithal to take on something seemingly so involved at this stage and so would prefer to stick with factory ammo.

To this end, can anyone who owns Sako S20 in .308 comment around the ammo options your barrels prefer?

Ideally I might find two or three peeps with the combination whose barrels all like the same ammo varieties, prospectively saving me a small fortunate in trying the available options.

Thanks in advance for any shared knowledge

 

[wytonpjs]

To this end, can anyone who owns Sako S20 in .308 comment around the ammo options your barrels prefer?

I’ve been using Barnes VOR-TX 130gr in my 20” .308 S20 for about 5 years now (had one of the first in the country and I have taken all 6 UK species with it.) A bit heavy on the roe and CWD, I’ve gone back to using my .243 with 80gr Barnes TTSX on them and often muntjac now. I have also reloaded this round (130gr TTSX) for years using IMR4895 and now have an equivalent VIT load, both within 5fps of the VOR-TX with identical ballistics and same COAL. Interestingly, I also have a 20” T3X which has the same chamber and barrel as the Sako and fire-formed brass from one fits perfectly the other and vice-versa. Win, win

 

[tjm160]

Hmmm, thanks Wyton, that's really helpful, I've seen that said about .308 in other threads, very much food for thought as I will mainly shoot Roe and Munty for the table.

 

[wytonpjs]

I’ve been using Barnes VOR-TX 130gr in my 20” .308 S20 for about 5 years now (had one of the first in the country and I have taken all 6 UK species with it.) A bit heavy on the roe and CWD, I’ve gone back to using my .243 with 80gr Barnes TTSX on them and often muntjac now. I have also reloaded this round (130gr TTSX) for years using IMR4895 and now have an equivalent VIT load, both within 5fps of the VOR-TX with identical ballistics and same COAL. Interestingly, I also have a 20” T3X which has the same chamber and barrel as the Sako and fire-formed brass from one fits perfectly the other and vice-versa. Win, win

Forgot to say - Dauntsey have extensive stocks of TRSX and VOR-TX last time I called.

 

[tjm160]

Thanks, that's really helpful too ......... hmmm, might need a re-think

 

[Foxyboy43]

Hmmm.
Don’t be put off the idea of reloading - there is much detailed discussion on this site which might make reloading slightly daunting to a newbie but with a bit of outlay and a little research you will quickly find it an absorbing aspect of your shooting. It does not have to be complicated or hugely expensive and I would be very surprised indeed if you could not improve or at least match what you are getting with factory ammunition.
I really would recommend giving it a go….

 

[tjm160]

Thanks Foxyboy, much appreciated, that's just the sort of encouragement needed. With factory ammo prices so unbelievably high now, if reloading (after initial investment) can be a lot cheaper, I'm starting to think it may well be the better way to go.

 

[wytonpjs]

Thanks Foxyboy, much appreciated, that's just the sort of encouragement needed. With factory ammo prices so unbelievably high now, if reloading (after initial investment) can be a lot cheaper, I'm starting to think it may well be the better way to go.

On my 130gr VOR-TX rounds, factory is £4.50 a round versus £1.50 reloaded TTSX ignoring capital sunk costs. You’re not too far aware (indeed, I’m in Chippenham having dinner with friends on Saturday) so very happy to show you my setup and discuss learnt lessons

 

[tjm160]

Wow, that's an unbelievable difference, thank Wyton. Such a kind and generous offer too, I would be only too grateful to accept, thank you so much!