People handload ammo for two reasons, cost and performance. After loading a bunch of 38Spl and 45ACP, I gave up on that as the cost of my time was more than the savings. I don’t actually enjoy the process itself. That leaves the other reason and I can definitely see the point to it. Once you know that your rifle shoots best with a specific combination of case, primer, powder, bullet and overall length, it makes sense to stick with what works. If you are lucky, that load is offered commercially. If you are not lucky, then logistics of ensuring a supply of handloads becomes a hassle. For example, the 11-pound airline limit isn’t all that much rifle ammunition for a 3-gun shoot. Few people can bring their reloading rooms along on extended trips.
That brings me to an interesting business model: Setpoint. They basically handload ammo to your specifications. For now, they do only 308WIN but plan on offering other calibers also. In a way, ordering custom ammo is like ordering steak done just the way you like it — and at much the same cost ($30 to $35 per order). Considering how long it would take to build twenty match rounds, it seems worth the time savings. Setpoint offered me a sample for the cost of shipping it and I jumped at the opportunity.
The load data is helpfully printed right on the ammo box. Being new to handloading rifle ammunition, I selected Barnes TTSX bullet and left all other settings at the recommended defaults. My most likely use for these cartridges is eventual deer hunting and controlled expansion of .270 bullets I’ve got from Barnes looked really good.
Since my only .308 right now is the Keltec RFB, I will probably fire it in that. Might have a chance to try it in the upcoming Anderson .308 if that gets here soon enough.
