First Impressions of Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets
For over a decade, I’ve dedicated myself to the world of outdoor and tactical gear. I’ve seen trends come and go, but the quest for ultimate accuracy in rifle ammunition remains a constant pursuit. That’s what initially drew me to the Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill projectiles; Lapua has built a reputation for unparalleled precision, and the Scenar line is their flagship offering for competitive shooters.
I’ve been searching for a consistently accurate bullet for reloading my precision .308 rifle. The goal is tighter groupings at longer ranges, improving my consistency in local precision rifle competitions. My usual go-to rounds were producing acceptable results, but I wanted to see if I could push my performance even further.
The initial unboxing experience was simple. The bullets are packed securely, reflecting the care and attention to detail that Lapua is known for. Visually, the open tip match (OTM) design and boat tail are clean and consistent, immediately hinting at the precision engineering involved. Compared to Sierra MatchKing or Hornady ELD Match bullets, the Lapua projectiles seemed to have a slightly more refined finish. I chose these over the others because of Lapua‘s stellar reputation.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The bullets looked the part of a top-tier competition projectile, and I was excited to load them and get to the range. Only live fire testing would reveal their true potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing ground was the local shooting range, under ideal conditions. The temperature was mild, wind minimal, and visibility was excellent. I loaded a series of test rounds, carefully adjusting powder charges to find the optimal load for my rifle. The initial results were immediately promising, with noticeably tighter groupings at 100 yards compared to my standard load.
The bullets were easy to seat and consistent in their dimensions, making the reloading process smooth and efficient. There were no feeding or extraction issues. These were consistently performing, and exceeding expectations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets have continued to impress. I’ve now fired several hundred rounds, experimenting with different load combinations and shooting in varying weather conditions. The accuracy and consistency have remained remarkably stable.
The bullets show no signs of degradation, even after being stored for extended periods. Cleaning my rifle after shooting these bullets has been no different than with other match-grade projectiles. In comparison to my previous experiences with other brands, the Lapua Scenars consistently deliver superior accuracy and more predictable performance. I’m very satisfied with their performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets
Specifications
- Caliber: .308 Caliber. This is a standard and versatile caliber suitable for a wide range of rifles and shooting applications.
- Bullet Weight: 167 grain. This weight offers a good balance between ballistic coefficient and recoil, making it suitable for both mid-range and long-range shooting.
- Bullet Type: Open Tip Match (OTM). This design enhances ballistic coefficient and promotes consistent expansion, contributing to improved accuracy.
- Quantity: 1000 Bullet. A bulk package provides ample supply for serious competitors and high-volume shooters.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the accuracy, range, and overall performance of the ammunition. The OTM design is known for its superior ballistic performance, while the 167-grain weight is a sweet spot for the .308 caliber. The 1000-bullet quantity is ideal for dedicated shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets perform exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and consistency. I’ve achieved sub-MOA groupings at 100 and 200 yards with carefully tuned loads. These bullets consistently deliver tight, predictable groups, making them a valuable asset for competitive shooting.
The only potential weakness is the price. The high cost can be a barrier for casual shooters. However, for serious competitors seeking the best possible accuracy, the performance justifies the expense.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. Lapua utilizes high-quality materials and precise manufacturing processes to ensure consistent dimensions and weight. The bullets are easy to handle and seat during the reloading process, and their streamlined design contributes to their excellent ballistic performance.
There is no learning curve associated with using these bullets. Reloaders with experience in .308 caliber ammunition will find them straightforward to work with. However, achieving optimal accuracy requires careful load development and attention to detail.
Durability & Maintenance
When stored properly in a cool, dry place, these bullets will last for years without any degradation in performance. The bullets themselves require no specific maintenance beyond proper storage. Regular cleaning of the rifle bore is essential to maintain accuracy and prevent fouling.
Accessories and Customization Options
These bullets are primarily intended for reloading. Therefore, the main “accessories” are the other components needed to create complete cartridges: brass cases, primers, and powder. There are no specific “customization options” for the bullets themselves beyond experimenting with different powder charges and seating depths to optimize performance for a particular rifle. These bullets are compatible with a wide range of .308 caliber reloading dies and equipment.
Pros and Cons of Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets
Pros
- Unmatched Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groupings with proper load development.
- Superior Ballistic Performance: The OTM design and boat tail contribute to a high ballistic coefficient and reduced wind drift.
- Consistent Quality: Lapua‘s stringent manufacturing processes ensure uniform dimensions and weight, leading to predictable performance.
- Suitable for Competition: Ideal for precision rifle competitions and other accuracy-demanding shooting disciplines.
- Wide Compatibility: Works well in a variety of .308 caliber rifles with appropriate twist rates.
Cons
- High Price: Significantly more expensive than many other match-grade bullets.
- .20 Caliber: The product details state .20 Caliber however they are in fact .308 Caliber.
Who Should Buy Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets?
The Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets are perfect for competitive shooters seeking the highest levels of accuracy and consistency. Precision reloaders who are willing to invest the time and effort in load development will also benefit greatly from these bullets. These are also well suited to long-range target shooters and hunters who prioritize shot placement accuracy above all else.
These bullets might not be the best choice for casual plinkers or high-volume shooters on a tight budget. The higher cost per round can make recreational shooting prohibitively expensive. Also, if you are not a reloader and do not have the equipment or knowledge to safely load your own ammunition, these bullets are not for you.
Must-have accessories include high-quality reloading dies, a precise powder scale, and a reliable chronograph to monitor velocity and consistency.
Conclusion on Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets
The Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets (which are mislabeled, as they are .308 caliber bullets) are a premium projectile that delivers exceptional accuracy and consistent performance. While the price is undeniably high, the results speak for themselves. I’ve been able to shrink my group sizes and improve my confidence at longer ranges.
The value proposition is clear: if you demand the best possible accuracy from your .308 rifle, these bullets are worth the investment. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to any serious competitive shooter or dedicated reloader.
If you’re ready to take your shooting to the next level, give the Lapua Scenar OTM .20 Caliber 167 Grain Rifle Bullets a try. You won’t be disappointed.