I'm trying to analyze why 2700 is a magic number for you...

Do the factory loads give you outstanding accuracy? If this is the case, then it might make some sense to try to get the velocity somewhat close. in alot of cases, a velocity for a given powder will give you similar accuracy for the same velocity load with with a different powder- or at least give you a starting point for finding an accurate load. Without a chronograph checking your loads and factory loads, you won't be able to find your proverbial rear end with a flashlight, mirror, two hands, and a funnel.

Remember- comparing book values to factory values is still comparing apples to oranges. I have different manuals that list significantly different velocities for the same loads.


I think you are overthinking this. If you start a few grains below the max load and load 3-5 rounds for each increment of .5 gr, I have no doubt you will find a good accurate load for your .308 so long as there is nothing wrong with the rifle. When you find a good accurate load, you can go back to your starting point and work the load down in .5 gr increments also for some low recoil practice/targtet loads.