Another Ruger 3 headed my way

[vaturkey]

This one was made in 1979 and its in .223. Anyone have any possible recommendations on a factory load to try for ground hogs?

 

[Major T]

I suggest you buy a box each of several bullet weights from 35-40 to 55. One should work really well. My 16" TC Contender likes 45 gr Win. that comes in the white box 40 count. My last Mini 14 liked 55 gr Rem. soft points. Enjoy, Jack

 

[Yosemite Sam]

If No. 3s follow the same change history as .223 cal No. 1s (and I have to assume they do) then your barrel will have a 1:12" twist, meaning it is best suited for lighter bullets up to 52gr, maybe 55gr. More recent No. 1s switched to a 1:9" twist to allow heavier bullets.

I'm currently having great luck with Montana Gold 55gr bullets on top of 24-25gr of Benchmark. Still zeroing in on the exact load.

-- Sam

 

[gatling]

I've always liked 748 powder in this caliber (and in 308, too). One of many great things about these single shots is you can seat the bullets out further so there is less of (or no) jump to the rifling, potentially improving accuracy. I don't have a No. 3 in .223; always wanted one. Great purchase; good luck and have fun.