Sierra MATCHKING RIFLE BULLETS – .30 CALIBER/7.62MM 168 GR. HPBT 100/BX

Product Description

Sierra MatchKing 168 grain .30 caliber HPBT rifle bullets are hollow point boat tail projectiles designed for precision rifle shooting and handloading. Each box contains 100 bullets.

The MatchKing line is engineered for consistent accuracy in competition and target shooting. The hollow point boat tail design reduces drag and supports uniform expansion at the base during flight.

These bullets are components for handloaders building precision ammunition. They are not loaded cartridges.

Key Facts

• Product: Sierra MatchKing Rifle Bullets
• Caliber: .30 Cal / 7.62mm
• Grain Weight: 168 Grain
• Bullet Type: HPBT (Hollow Point Boat Tail)
• Quantity: 100 per box

Why the 168 Grain HPBT Matters

The 168 grain weight is a benchmark for .308 Winchester match loads. It balances velocity retention and wind deflection out to mid-range distances. Many competitive shooters and precision handloaders consider it the starting point for load development.

The boat tail reduces base drag compared to flat-base bullets. The hollow point shifts the center of gravity rearward, which aids rotational stability. Together, these features support tight groups when paired with careful powder selection and consistent seating depth.

What You Need to Reload These Bullets

Sierra MatchKing bullets are components only. You will need brass cases in .30 caliber rifle cartridges such as .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield, along with appropriate powder, primers, and reloading equipment.

Seating depth and powder charge should be developed incrementally. Start with published load data from a current reloading manual. The 168 grain MatchKing has a published ballistic coefficient, but actual performance depends on your rifle’s twist rate and the velocity you achieve.

If you need guidance on load development or seating depth for a specific rifle, call us at 817-393-4000. Our gunsmith can discuss what works in similar builds.

How Sierra MatchKing Compares to Other Match Bullets

The MatchKing line competes directly with other match hollow points in the same weight class. The 168 grain .30 caliber HPBT is one of the longest-produced precision bullets on the market, with decades of load data available.

Heavier bullets in the 175 or 180 grain range may perform better at longer distances, especially beyond 600 yards, due to higher ballistic coefficients. The 168 grain shines inside that range and is often easier to push to accuracy nodes in factory-length magazines.

Buying from Western Sport in Roanoke, TX

Western Sport is a licensed FFL/SOT dealer and gunsmith shop serving North Texas and the DFW area since 2007. We stock ammunition components and offer gunsmithing services on site.

Call 817-393-4000 to check current availability, discuss load data, or ask about other projectiles in our inventory. Owner and gunsmith Lance Rankin and our team are here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What rifles can I load Sierra MatchKing 168 grain .30 cal bullets for?

A: You can load these bullets for any rifle chambered in .30 caliber cartridges, including .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and .300 Winchester Magnum. Match the overall loaded length to your magazine and chamber specifications.

Q: Are Sierra MatchKing 168 grain HPBT bullets good for hunting?

A: MatchKing bullets are designed for target shooting and match competition, not controlled expansion on game. Sierra produces a separate GameKing line for hunting. If you plan to hunt, ask about those options when you call 817-393-4000.

Q: What twist rate do I need for 168 grain .30 caliber bullets?

A: Most .308 Winchester and .30-06 rifles have a 1:10 or 1:12 twist rate, both of which stabilize 168 grain bullets. Confirm your barrel’s twist rate if you are unsure, as it affects accuracy with any projectile.

Q: How many bullets come in a box of Sierra MatchKing .30 cal 168 grain?

A: Each box contains 100 bullets. They are sold as reloading components, not as loaded ammunition.

Q: Can I shoot Sierra MatchKing bullets in a semi-automatic rifle?

A: Yes, once loaded into cartridges. Semi-automatic rifles in .308 Winchester or other .30 caliber chamberings will cycle these bullets if the overall cartridge length fits the magazine and the load produces enough gas pressure. Test for function and accuracy in your specific rifle.

Q: What is the difference between HPBT and other bullet types?

A: HPBT stands for hollow point boat tail. The hollow point reduces weight at the nose and shifts the center of gravity back, aiding stability. The boat tail tapers the base to reduce drag. Together, they improve accuracy and downrange performance compared to flat-base or round-nose designs.

Additional information