I have seen the three or four ammo choices for 7.62 on the best defence ammo thread, but was wondering where the standard ball loads and loads using Sierra Matchkings fit in?

Um 7.62 by what?  There are about a bajillion 7.62 calibers out there.

7.62x51 NATO or .308 win.

Well, the Federal Gold Match 168gr - 175gr SMK are really designed to touch someone from 600yds and beyond, using scoped rifles.  For standard iron-sight, the SMK are kind of high-price for  the 100-200yds engagement.   I mean, you can use it... but why pay the high cost  when something else can do the same under 200yds.  If you're using irons... stick with the lower grade stuff, if you planning on tagging something beyond 600yds, the SMK in 168gr is the bench mark... while the newer 175gr SMK is what people tells me is the way to go for long range engagement.  For me, my range book is dialed in for FGM 168gr FMJBT SMK...  I buy in lots and keep good record of which lots my current setup is dial in for.

As a side note... I once did a compersion test of some South Africa surplus 147gr, M118 173gr, and FGM 168gr... using a standard SA M1A (non-NM).  At 100yds, on a rest... I was tagging a standard NRA SR target, everything on paper.  Mind you, I'm not taking my time but I wasn't rapid firing either.

When I switched to a scoped rifle (Windchest 70 long-action BB, glass bedded w/ MK4)... everything was different... all average of 5 rounds each per group.

M118 173gr = 0.86 MOA @ 200 yds
SA 147gr = 0.68 MOA @ 200 yds
FGM 168gr SMK = 0.34 MOA @ 200 yds

M118 173gr = 2.18 MOA @ 400 yds
SA 147gr = 1.36 MOA @ 400 yds
FGM 168gr SMK = 0.97 MOA @ 400 yds

So what does it all mean... I don't know, but it was fun to put up numbers

No seriousally... my point is that with iron, you're going to get hits out to 200 yds with any good ammo.  If you plan on working with a scope... use the FGM.  If you don't want to spend the cash on the FGM but still plan on using the scope.... load up on SA surplus.


~nb