Author Topic: Sierra MatchKing (Read 605 times)

ras308 · « **on:** December 30, 2004, 03:38:51 AM »

Has anyone had any experience where you have seen a difference in accuracy between the 52 & 53 Sierra HPBT MatchKings using the same seating depth, powder charge, etc.

I am working up a load for my .222 mag. ackley improved. I have about half of my brass fireformed and am looking forward to loading the improved version!!! So far, I have tried IMR 4320, IMR 4198 and have some loaded with H-322 to try this evening. As of right now, the 4320 is showing the best accuracy in my rifle with the 52 grain, plus, I like the way it meters. Thanks.

Lone Star · « **Reply #1 on:** December 30, 2004, 04:57:05 AM »

There is no way to predict how the 52 and 53-grain MKs will perform in your rifle - you have to try them to find out. I think you would be happy with Varget or Benchmark in this cartridge too.

sgtt · « **Reply #2 on:** December 31, 2004, 07:52:04 PM »

Are you sure the 53 grn are boat tails? I have had great success with the 52 grn.

Catfish · « **Reply #3 on:** January 01, 2005, 04:01:50 PM »

Both are good bullets, but the 53 gn. is not a boat tail. My old .222 mag. did alittle better with the 53`s, but that don`t mean yours will.

Lone Star · « **Reply #4 on:** January 01, 2005, 04:51:49 PM »

The difference between the two bullets is the boat tail on the 52-grain MK. Some barrels prefer boat tails, some prefer flat bases. That's why it is impossible to tell how they will perform in your barrel. It is notjust a matter of one grain difference in weight.

Note that Sierra does not recommend these bullets for varmint hunting - their thick jackets may not expand at long range, and ricochets can be a safety problem. Use 'em on paper with a good backstop.

Patriot_1776 · « **Reply #5 on:** January 01, 2005, 05:28:44 PM »

Quote

Note that Sierra does not recommend these bullets for varmint hunting - their thick jackets may not expand at long range, and ricochets can be a safety problem. Use 'em on paper with a good backstop.

I apologize for changing the subject here. In terms of varmint hunting, what bullet design is all around the best, a HP, or a polymer tip? I don't hunt anything yet, but I'm trying to get a head start before I get into hunting and find a good bullet to use in my 223 WSSM that would offer excellent accuracy combined with the safety of a frangible bullet for varmints. My first choice would have been the Sierra 52gr. HPBT Match, but your quote has partially changed my mind about them. For now, my main choice revolves around these two types: 50gr. Nosler BT, or the 50gr. Barnes Varmin-A-Tor. I understand as it has been stated, different rifles like different bullets, my main thing is what design would most likely combine the two characteristics I mentioned above? Thanks

josebd · « **Reply #6 on:** January 02, 2005, 03:26:28 AM »

ive used the 53 grain hp match in my .223 for prairie dogs and coyotes,does a excellent job!

ras308 · « **Reply #7 on:** January 03, 2005, 09:35:50 AM »

I stand corrected, I read wrong, didn't see the BT missing??? I know every rifle is different, I'm thinking about trying a box of the 53's w/o the BT. One thing about the 52 HPBT, they will definitely put a hog down. In the past I've killed hogs with this bullet in the .222, this past weekend with my fireforming loads. I know many people would hesitate to use the .22 cal bullets on a hog, I normally shoot them in the head, but this one stepped forward and which up right in the shoulder. She weighed around 250 and wouldn't have fallen any faster with my .308. You would not believe how much damage the little bullet did, had to do a great deal of trimming on both shoulders. Thanks for the replies!!!