Originally Posted by
SOW_0331
I don't reload, so I can't comment on brass. I've been buying a few boxes a week of the 7.62x51 NATO as I prefer not to shoot deer ammo for training purposes. It shoots clean, they have cycled flawlessly, and I was keeping a consistent 2-3MOA performance at 300m. Keep in mind, this isn't shooting off a lead sled or bipods, but in the same way we train with a carbine...difficult, uncomfortable, shitty positions.
I've recorded the dope for the rounds and when confirming zero have not seen noticeable variation across what I can only assume is several different lots. Right now I use it for my LMT the way most of us load up green tip 5.56, it's an effective general purpose round. I'm not expecting 165gr SMK performance out of it.
While it being in stock varies, I would think the reason it is usually still on the shelf is the box and caliber markings. Most of the Wal-Mart ammo buyers are buying what they know. Few own a weapon marked 7.62x51NATO, and few know anything outside of Federal/Winchester. It's the same way at some of the outdoor stores in my area like Bass Pro or Cabelas, the fudds are lining up to complain about no .223 when there are boxes of 5.56. They don't know what they don't know, and I'm okay with that while I'm saving money and building on ammo stock.