This refers to a specific type of ammunition manufactured by Federal Premium Ammunition. It is a .308 Winchester cartridge loaded with a 175-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet. This ammunition is designed for exceptional accuracy and consistency, making it a popular choice for competitive shooting, particularly in disciplines that require long-range precision.
Its importance stems from its reliability in delivering consistent performance. The combination of high-quality components, including the Sierra MatchKing bullet renowned for its ballistic coefficient and uniform construction, and Federal’s stringent manufacturing processes, results in ammunition that minimizes shot-to-shot variation. This translates to tighter groupings on target, a critical factor in competitive shooting scenarios. Historically, ammunition of this type has enabled shooters to achieve higher scores and enhanced their competitive edge.
The following sections will delve into the specific characteristics of .308 Winchester ammunition, the advantages of using a 175-grain bullet, and the role of consistent ammunition in achieving precision accuracy in competitive shooting.
1. .308 Winchester Cartridge
The .308 Winchester cartridge serves as the foundational element of the ammunition referenced. Its design parameters and inherent ballistic characteristics directly influence the performance of the complete Federal Gold Medal Match offering. The cartridges standardization ensures compatibility across a wide array of firearms and provides a baseline for consistent ballistic behavior.
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Case Dimensions and Capacity
The .308 Winchester cartridge possesses specific dimensional characteristics regarding its length, diameter, and internal volume. These dimensions directly impact the powder capacity and, consequently, the potential velocity and energy that can be imparted to the projectile. The Federal Gold Medal Match loading exploits this capacity within safe pressure limits to achieve optimal projectile velocity for accuracy and consistent trajectory.
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Headspace and Primer Pocket
Precise headspace control is critical for consistent ignition and accuracy. The .308 Winchester cartridge’s specified headspace dimension ensures that the primer is consistently positioned relative to the firing pin strike. This, combined with a quality primer such as the Gold Medal primer, contributes to reliable ignition and minimizes shot-to-shot velocity variation. The consistency of the primer pocket contributes to consistent primer seating depth.
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SAAMI Specifications
The .308 Winchester cartridge adheres to standards defined by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI). These specifications cover critical dimensions, pressure limits, and other parameters to ensure interchangeability and safe operation across firearms chambered for this cartridge. Federal Gold Medal Match ammunition is manufactured within these SAAMI guidelines, promoting compatibility and safety.
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Rifle Compatibility and Action Type
The .308 Winchester is a versatile cartridge suitable for various rifle action types, including bolt-action, semi-automatic, and lever-action. The choice of firearm will influence the overall accuracy potential; however, the inherent characteristics of the cartridge remain constant. The Federal Gold Medal Match loading is typically favored in bolt-action rifles due to their inherent accuracy potential, where its consistency can be fully realized.
The interplay between the cartridge’s design, adherence to industry standards, and firearm compatibility establishes the foundation for the Federal Gold Medal Match ammunition’s performance. While the cartridge provides the framework, the specific bullet, powder, and primer selection are critical in maximizing its potential for consistent, accurate results. The choice of the .308 Winchester Cartridge is to create a balance between the effective range, accuracy, and recoil.
2. 175-grain Sierra MatchKing
The 175-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet is a critical component of the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition. Its selection is not arbitrary; it represents a deliberate design choice to optimize ballistic performance and accuracy for specific shooting applications.
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Ballistic Coefficient and Trajectory
The 175-grain Sierra MatchKing possesses a high ballistic coefficient, typically around .505. This value indicates its ability to overcome air resistance during flight, resulting in a flatter trajectory and reduced wind drift compared to bullets with lower ballistic coefficients. In the context of Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175, this translates to improved long-range accuracy, as the bullet maintains a more predictable path to the target. For instance, at 800 yards, a higher ballistic coefficient can significantly reduce the amount of vertical adjustment needed to compensate for bullet drop.
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Construction and Consistency
Sierra MatchKing bullets are known for their consistent construction, a key factor in achieving repeatable accuracy. The jacket and core are manufactured to tight tolerances, minimizing variations in weight and shape. This uniformity ensures that each bullet performs similarly, reducing shot-to-shot dispersion. Within Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175, this consistency contributes to tighter groupings on target, an essential attribute for competitive shooting. For example, consistent bullet weight and shape ensure similar muzzle velocities from round to round.
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Match-Grade Accuracy and Application
The Sierra MatchKing bullet is specifically designed for match-grade accuracy. Its boat-tail design and streamlined profile contribute to enhanced stability in flight, further minimizing deviations from the intended trajectory. The design is made for target shooting rather than hunting. This accuracy is a primary reason for its inclusion in Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175, as the ammunition is intended for use in precision shooting disciplines such as long-range target competitions. The aerodynamic design and controlled manufacturing processes ensure the bullet performs optimally within its intended range.
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Terminal Performance Considerations
It is imperative to note that Sierra MatchKing bullets, including the 175-grain variant, are generally not designed for optimal terminal performance on game. Their construction prioritizes accuracy over expansion or fragmentation. Therefore, the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition, featuring this bullet, is primarily intended for target shooting and competitive applications, and not hunting scenarios where rapid and reliable expansion is required for ethical and effective game harvesting.
In summation, the selection of the 175-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet for the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition reflects a conscious decision to prioritize ballistic performance, consistent construction, and match-grade accuracy. Its features align with the intended purpose of the ammunition, which is to provide shooters with a reliable and accurate tool for competitive shooting and precision marksmanship.
3. Gold Medal Primer
The Gold Medal primer, a component of the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition, is specifically engineered to ensure consistent and reliable ignition of the propellant. This consistent ignition is paramount in achieving uniformity in muzzle velocity and chamber pressure from shot to shot. Irregular primer performance introduces variations in the combustion process, which directly affects bullet trajectory and overall accuracy. In the context of Federal Gold Medal Match ammunition, the Gold Medal primer is selected for its tight manufacturing tolerances and its ability to produce a consistent flame kernel, initiating a uniform and complete powder burn. This contributes significantly to the ammunition’s match-grade performance. For example, inconsistencies in primer ignition can result in velocity spreads that degrade accuracy at longer ranges.
The importance of the Gold Medal primer is further amplified by its contribution to minimizing “vertical stringing,” a phenomenon where shots are consistently high or low due to velocity variations. By providing a consistent ignition, the primer helps to maintain a predictable bullet trajectory, reducing the need for excessive adjustments during competitive shooting. In practical terms, this means a shooter can have increased confidence in the predictability of each shot, allowing for more precise aiming and higher scores. Its real-life application extends to reducing the error margin in demanding precision disciplines that require minimal shot-to-shot variation.
In summary, the Gold Medal primer is an integral element of Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition, serving as a crucial enabler of its exceptional consistency and accuracy. The primer’s role in ensuring reliable and uniform propellant ignition is directly linked to the ammunition’s ability to deliver match-grade performance, particularly in competitive shooting scenarios. Understanding the importance of the primer highlights the precision engineering and careful component selection that define this specialized ammunition.
4. Consistent Powder Charge
A consistent powder charge is a cornerstone of the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition’s precision and performance. The precise metering of propellant within each cartridge directly influences the resulting muzzle velocity, chamber pressure, and overall ballistic trajectory. Variations in powder charge lead to inconsistencies in these factors, which manifest as dispersion on target, particularly at extended ranges. The Federal Gold Medal Match ammunition mitigates this variability through stringent quality control measures during the loading process. These measures ensure each cartridge receives the intended amount of propellant within very tight tolerances. The result is reduced velocity spread, which is crucial for achieving repeatable accuracy in competitive shooting and other precision applications. A practical example of this effect can be observed when comparing the performance of hand-loaded ammunition, where powder charge consistency can be meticulously controlled, to that of mass-produced ammunition lacking the same level of attention to detail.
The importance of a consistent powder charge extends beyond merely minimizing velocity variations. It also affects the stability of the bullet in flight. Inconsistent powder burn, stemming from charge variations, can create uneven pressure waves within the barrel, potentially disrupting the bullet’s initial orientation and spin. This disruption can exacerbate aerodynamic drag and contribute to greater sensitivity to crosswinds. The Federal Gold Medal Match ammunition, with its focus on powder charge consistency, aims to minimize these effects and provide a more stable and predictable bullet trajectory. The selection of powder type also plays a role, with specific propellants chosen for their consistent burning characteristics and insensitivity to temperature fluctuations. An understanding of this interplay is critical for precision shooters aiming to maximize the accuracy potential of their firearms and ammunition.
In conclusion, the consistent powder charge is not merely a detail but a fundamental element contributing to the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition’s reputation for accuracy. It is directly linked to reduced velocity spread, improved bullet stability, and overall ballistic consistency. The challenges associated with achieving such consistency on a mass-production scale underscore the stringent quality control measures employed in the manufacture of this ammunition. This understanding provides shooters with a deeper appreciation for the engineering behind match-grade ammunition and its significance in achieving superior results.
5. Ballistic Coefficient (.505)
The ballistic coefficient (BC) of .505 is an intrinsic property linked to the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition, specifically the Sierra MatchKing bullet it employs. This value quantifies the bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance during flight. A higher BC indicates less deceleration due to drag, resulting in a flatter trajectory and reduced wind drift. Therefore, the .505 BC is not merely a number; it is a critical factor influencing the ammunition’s long-range performance and precision. The selection of the Sierra MatchKing bullet with this specific BC is a deliberate design choice aimed at optimizing the ammunition for competitive shooting scenarios where minimizing external influences on trajectory is paramount. The relationship is causal: the bullet possesses the .505 BC, which in turn affects the ammunition’s flight characteristics.
The practical significance of this BC is evident in long-range shooting. Consider two .308 bullets with differing BC values. The bullet with a .505 BC, like the one used in Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175, will exhibit less vertical drop and lateral deviation from wind at distances exceeding 500 yards compared to a bullet with a lower BC. This reduced sensitivity to external factors allows for more predictable and accurate shots. Shooters can, therefore, make more precise adjustments for range and wind, leading to tighter groupings and higher scores in competitive shooting events. In other words, achieving the same level of accuracy with a bullet having a significantly lower BC would necessitate greater skill and more frequent adjustments based on observed conditions, creating a greater margin for error.
In summary, the ballistic coefficient of .505 represents a carefully engineered aspect of the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition, specifically attributed to the Sierra MatchKing projectile. Its effect is to minimize the impact of air resistance on bullet trajectory, thus enhancing long-range accuracy and predictability. The understanding of this relationship is crucial for shooters aiming to maximize the potential of this ammunition, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding ballistic calculations and wind adjustments. While achieving a high BC presents manufacturing challenges related to bullet shape and uniformity, the resulting improvements in performance justify the engineering efforts in the context of precision shooting.
6. Match Grade Accuracy
Match Grade Accuracy, in the context of ammunition, represents a pinnacle of precision and consistency. It denotes the capacity of a cartridge to deliver tight groupings and predictable trajectories under controlled conditions, specifically tailored for competitive shooting and precision marksmanship. Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175 ammunition is designed and manufactured to achieve this level of accuracy, making it a benchmark against which other ammunition is often compared.
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Component Consistency
Match Grade Accuracy relies heavily on the uniformity of individual components within each cartridge. Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175 achieves this through meticulous selection and quality control of its bullet, primer, propellant, and casing. Each component is manufactured to exacting specifications, minimizing variations in weight, dimensions, and material properties. This consistency translates directly to reduced shot-to-shot variability in muzzle velocity and chamber pressure, contributing to tighter groupings on target. For example, the Sierra MatchKing bullet, used in this ammunition, is known for its consistent weight and shape, crucial for minimizing ballistic dispersion.
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Manufacturing Precision
Beyond component consistency, the manufacturing process itself plays a critical role in achieving Match Grade Accuracy. Federal Premium employs advanced machinery and stringent quality control procedures to ensure precise assembly of each cartridge. This includes accurate metering of propellant, consistent bullet seating depth, and precise crimping of the case mouth. Deviations in these parameters can introduce inconsistencies in ballistic performance, degrading accuracy. The attention to detail in the manufacturing process is what separates Match Grade ammunition from standard offerings. An example is the automated powder dispensing system, which ensures highly consistent powder charges, minimizing velocity variations.
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Testing and Validation
Ammunition claiming Match Grade Accuracy must undergo rigorous testing and validation to confirm its performance. Federal Premium subjects Gold Medal Match 308 175 ammunition to extensive accuracy testing under controlled conditions. This testing involves firing multiple shot groups at specified distances and analyzing the resulting dispersion patterns. Ammunition that meets the established accuracy standards is then certified as Match Grade. The testing process not only validates the ammunition’s performance but also provides valuable data for refining the manufacturing process and improving future production runs. For example, extreme spread measurements (the distance between the centers of the two farthest shots in a group) are a key metric used to assess accuracy.
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Environmental Stability
While inherent accuracy is essential, Match Grade Accuracy also implies a degree of insensitivity to environmental factors. Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175 is designed to maintain consistent performance across a range of temperature and humidity conditions. The propellant used in the ammunition is formulated to minimize velocity variations due to temperature changes. This is particularly important in competitive shooting, where matches may take place in diverse weather conditions. Ammunition that exhibits significant velocity changes with temperature will require more frequent adjustments to point of aim, increasing the likelihood of errors. For instance, specialized powders with temperature-stable additives are often employed to mitigate this issue.
The facets of component consistency, manufacturing precision, rigorous testing, and environmental stability coalesce to define Match Grade Accuracy. The Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175 ammunition exemplifies these principles, delivering a product optimized for precision and consistency. The result is a cartridge trusted by competitive shooters and precision marksmen who demand the highest levels of performance. Its inherent accuracy stems from a holistic approach encompassing component selection, manufacturing processes, validation procedures, and environmental considerations, which collectively elevate it to the Match Grade standard.
7. Long-Range Stability
Long-range stability, in the context of ammunition performance, directly influences the accuracy and predictability of a projectile’s trajectory over extended distances. For Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175, this characteristic is paramount, ensuring that the bullet maintains a consistent flight path, minimizing deviations caused by external factors and internal inconsistencies. The inherent design and manufacturing processes of this ammunition are specifically geared towards enhancing long-range stability.
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Aerodynamic Form Factor
The Sierra MatchKing bullet, a key component of the Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175, features a boat-tail design and streamlined profile meticulously engineered for aerodynamic efficiency. This optimized form minimizes drag, allowing the bullet to retain velocity and maintain a stable flight path over long distances. In practical terms, a bullet with a less aerodynamic shape would decelerate more rapidly and become more susceptible to wind drift, reducing its long-range stability. The selection of this specific bullet design is a conscious decision to enhance stability and predictability.
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Consistent Bullet Rotation
Gyroscopic stability, imparted by the rifling of the firearm’s barrel, is critical for long-range accuracy. The Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175 ammunition is designed to promote consistent bullet rotation, ensuring that the bullet remains oriented correctly in flight and resists tumbling or yawing. This consistency is achieved through precise bullet dimensions, uniform weight distribution, and consistent contact with the rifling. Uneven bullet rotation can lead to unpredictable trajectory deviations, particularly at longer ranges. The manufacturing process of this ammunition prioritizes achieving uniform bullet characteristics to minimize this risk.
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Minimized Velocity Variation
Consistent muzzle velocity is essential for long-range stability, as variations in velocity can lead to differences in bullet drop and wind drift. The Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175 ammunition utilizes high-quality propellant and precise loading techniques to minimize velocity variations from shot to shot. This ensures that the bullet follows a more predictable trajectory, improving long-range accuracy. Inconsistent velocities introduce compounding errors at greater distances, demanding more complex ballistic calculations and increasing the likelihood of misses. The ammunition’s stringent quality control procedures are essential for maintaining velocity consistency.
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Resistance to External Perturbations
While internal consistency is vital, the inherent design of the bullet also contributes to its resistance to external disturbances such as wind. The high ballistic coefficient of the Sierra MatchKing bullet enables it to cut through wind with less deflection compared to bullets with lower ballistic coefficients. This reduces the need for drastic windage adjustments and enhances long-range stability in varying environmental conditions. The ability to resist wind drift is a direct result of the bullet’s aerodynamic properties and contributes significantly to the ammunition’s long-range performance.
The facets above converge to define the long-range stability associated with Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175 ammunition. The aerodynamic design, consistent bullet rotation, minimized velocity variation, and resistance to external perturbations collectively ensure that the bullet maintains a predictable and accurate trajectory over extended distances. This characteristic is paramount for competitive shooters and precision marksmen seeking to maximize their performance at long range. Each design element of the ammunition is deliberate and aimed at improving its stability and accuracy, resulting in a cartridge optimized for long-range applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions surrounding the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition, providing factual and objective information for informed decision-making.
Question 1: What distinguishes the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 from standard .308 ammunition?
The primary distinction lies in the precision manufacturing and component selection employed in the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175. It utilizes a Sierra MatchKing bullet known for its consistent weight and shape, coupled with a Gold Medal primer and carefully measured powder charge, resulting in significantly reduced shot-to-shot velocity variation and improved accuracy compared to standard ammunition.
Question 2: Is the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 suitable for hunting?
While accurate, the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175, utilizing a Sierra MatchKing bullet, is not designed for optimal terminal performance on game. The bullet’s construction prioritizes accuracy over expansion or fragmentation, making it less suitable for ethical and effective game harvesting. Ammunition specifically designed for hunting, featuring expanding bullets, is recommended for that purpose.
Question 3: What is the effective range of the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175?
The effective range depends on various factors, including the firearm, environmental conditions, and shooter skill. However, due to its high ballistic coefficient and consistent performance, the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 is typically effective out to 800 yards or more in optimal conditions when employed in a system designed for long-range shooting.
Question 4: What is the significance of the .505 ballistic coefficient (BC) of this ammunition?
The .505 ballistic coefficient indicates the bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance. A higher BC translates to a flatter trajectory and reduced wind drift, enhancing long-range accuracy. This specific BC value contributes significantly to the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175’s performance in mitigating the effects of wind and gravity on bullet flight.
Question 5: Does the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 require a specific barrel twist rate?
A 1:10″ to 1:12″ twist rate is generally recommended for stabilizing the 175-grain bullet in .308 Winchester. While other twist rates may work, these are commonly considered optimal for achieving consistent accuracy with this ammunition.
Question 6: Is Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition reloadable?
The brass cases used in Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition are generally considered reloadable, provided they are inspected for damage and reloaded using appropriate reloading techniques and components. However, reloading practices should always adhere to established safety guidelines.
The key takeaways regarding the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 are its focus on precision, its suitability for target and competitive shooting, and the importance of understanding its design characteristics for optimal performance.
The subsequent section will delve into considerations for maximizing the accuracy of this ammunition in conjunction with appropriate firearms and shooting techniques.
Maximizing Accuracy
This section provides guidance for achieving optimal accuracy with the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition. Employing these tips can enhance a shooter’s performance and consistency.
Tip 1: Firearm Compatibility.
Ensure that the firearm is chambered correctly for .308 Winchester and that the barrel twist rate is suitable for stabilizing the 175-grain bullet. A 1:10″ or 1:12″ twist rate is generally recommended. Mismatched chamberings or improper twist rates can negatively impact accuracy and stability.
Tip 2: Optic Selection and Zeroing.
Utilize a high-quality optic with precise adjustments and repeatable tracking. Prior to engaging in serious shooting, meticulously zero the optic at a known distance, typically 100 yards. Verify the zero regularly and make adjustments as needed to compensate for environmental changes.
Tip 3: Consistent Shooting Fundamentals.
Adhere to consistent shooting fundamentals, including proper stance, grip, trigger control, and breathing techniques. Minor inconsistencies in these fundamentals can be magnified at longer ranges, leading to increased dispersion. Practice these fundamentals regularly to develop muscle memory and ensure repeatability.
Tip 4: Environmental Awareness and Compensation.
Carefully assess environmental factors such as wind speed and direction, temperature, and humidity. Utilize ballistic calculators or software to estimate bullet drop and wind drift based on these factors, and adjust aiming points accordingly. Neglecting environmental conditions can significantly impact accuracy at extended ranges.
Tip 5: Ammunition Storage.
Properly store the Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175 ammunition in a cool, dry environment to prevent degradation of the propellant and primer. Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity can negatively affect ammunition performance and consistency. This ensures uniform ballistic properties across the ammunition supply.
Tip 6: Regular Firearm Maintenance.
Maintain the firearm in optimal condition through regular cleaning and lubrication. A clean barrel promotes consistent bullet flight and reduces the buildup of fouling, which can negatively impact accuracy. Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
Tip 7: Controlled Breathing and Trigger Control.
Breathing techniques and trigger control are the keys to shot stability. Prior to firing, take slow, deep breaths and exhale halfway before gently squeezing the trigger. Avoid jerking the trigger or anticipating the recoil, to ensure a smooth, controlled release.
These considerations are vital for maximizing the accuracy potential of Federal Gold Medal Match .308 175. Their implementation will yield notable improvements in precision and shot-to-shot consistency.
The subsequent segment will discuss the relevance of the ammunition in competitive shooting applications.
Federal Gold Medal Match 308 175
This exploration has detailed the critical attributes of federal gold medal match 308 175 ammunition. Its design, encompassing the Sierra MatchKing bullet, Gold Medal primer, and meticulously controlled powder charge, underscores a commitment to accuracy and consistency. Understanding the individual components and their interplay is essential for recognizing the ammunition’s intended purpose and potential.
The information provided should assist in making informed decisions regarding its application in competitive shooting and precision marksmanship. Continued adherence to best practices in firearm maintenance, shooting technique, and environmental awareness will further maximize the benefits offered by this ammunition. Its consistent performance characteristics position it as a valuable tool for those seeking to achieve superior results in demanding shooting disciplines.
