First Impressions of Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS
For over a decade, I’ve hand-loaded countless rounds for everything from varmint hunting to precision long-range shooting. When I first laid eyes on the Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS, the sleek black tip and boat tail design immediately screamed “long-range performance.” These bullets, manufactured by Swift Bullet Company, promise a flat trajectory and controlled expansion, a combination that’s often difficult to achieve.
I’ve been searching for a reliable .308 bullet that could deliver consistent accuracy and devastating terminal performance at extended ranges for my whitetail hunts. Many bullets I’ve tested either lacked the ballistic coefficient to buck the wind effectively or failed to expand reliably at lower velocities. The Scirocco II’s claimed long-range efficiency piqued my interest.
The packaging was straightforward, containing 100 bullets neatly organized. The bullets themselves felt substantial and well-made; each exhibited a consistent shape and weight. Compared to Sierra MatchKing bullets, which prioritize extreme accuracy for target shooting, the Scirocco II has a more aggressive profile, suggesting a focus on both accuracy and terminal ballistics. I also considered Nosler AccuBond Long Range bullets, but I wanted to try something new that may offer a slight edge in expansion at lower velocities. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if these bullets could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS was at my local shooting range, where I tested them in my custom-built .308 bolt-action rifle. The range offered distances out to 600 yards, perfect for evaluating their long-range capabilities. I loaded them with a carefully chosen powder charge to achieve a muzzle velocity of approximately 2700 fps, aligning with common .308 Winchester loads.
Conditions were slightly breezy, with a 5-10 mph crosswind, adding a realistic challenge to the accuracy testing. The bullets were surprisingly easy to load; seating depth was consistent and required minimal adjustment. My initial three-shot groups at 100 yards were tight, measuring just under 0.75 MOA, an excellent start. However, what truly impressed me was their performance at longer distances; at 400 and 600 yards, the Scirocco II bullets maintained exceptional stability, demonstrating minimal drift in the crosswind.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS have proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve used them in various weather conditions, including hot summer days and cold, damp autumn mornings. There have been no signs of degradation or performance loss.
The bullets have shown no signs of deformation or damage during loading or firing. Cleaning my rifle after shooting these bullets has been straightforward, with minimal copper fouling in the barrel. Compared to some other premium hunting bullets I’ve used, these have noticeably reduced fouling. Their consistent performance and ease of maintenance have made them a staple in my reloading setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS
Specifications
The Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS boast several key specifications that contribute to their performance. These are boat tail (BT) projectiles specifically designed for .30 caliber rifles. Each bullet weighs, depending on the specific load, but are typically available in weights suited for .308 and .30-06 applications. They are sold in boxes of 100.
These specifications are critical for long-range accuracy and terminal performance. The boat tail design reduces drag, improving ballistic coefficient and allowing the bullet to maintain velocity downrange. The .30 caliber is a versatile choice for medium to large game, while the specific weight determines the bullet’s trajectory and energy transfer upon impact.
Performance & Functionality
The Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS truly excel in their intended role: long-range hunting. Accuracy is superb, consistently delivering sub-MOA groups from my rifle when I do my part. Reliability is unwavering, with consistent ballistic performance across different powder loads within published data.
The Scirocco II’s strength lies in its ability to maintain a flat trajectory and deliver controlled expansion. A potential weakness might be its price point compared to more budget-friendly options, though I believe its performance justifies the cost for serious hunters. It exceeds my expectations for a bullet designed for both accuracy and terminal performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS are well-designed and built with high-quality materials. The weight is consistent from bullet to bullet, crucial for hand-loading precise rounds. There isn’t really a “feel” to the bullet beyond the expectation of quality and consistent form, so there is no learning curve, but they seat easily in the case mouth of the brass, thanks to the boattail design.
The bullet’s design is focused on functionality, prioritizing aerodynamics and reliable expansion. The black polymer tip helps initiate expansion upon impact.
Durability & Maintenance
As a bullet, “durability” isn’t the primary concern, but the materials and construction ensure consistent performance. These are not designed for reuse or any kind of ‘maintenance’, but these bullets are known for their consistent manufacturing tolerances.
These bullets are designed to perform flawlessly upon firing and impact. I expect them to maintain their ballistic integrity in storage for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
Since these are bullets, there are no accessories included or direct “customization” options. However, reloaders can tailor the load to their specific rifle and hunting needs.
The bullets are compatible with standard .30 caliber reloading dies and components. Reloading data is readily available from various sources.
Pros and Cons of Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS
Pros
- Exceptional long-range accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups.
- High ballistic coefficient: Maintains velocity and reduces wind drift.
- Controlled expansion: Provides reliable terminal performance on game.
- Consistent weight and dimensions: Simplifies the reloading process.
- Reduced copper fouling: Easier to clean the rifle barrel.
Cons
- Higher price point: More expensive than some other hunting bullets.
- May be overkill for short-range hunting: Optimal performance is realized at longer distances.
Who Should Buy Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS?
The Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS are perfect for serious hunters who prioritize long-range accuracy and reliable terminal performance. If you hunt in open terrain where shots beyond 300 yards are common, these bullets will give you a significant advantage. These bullets would also suit competitive shooters who want a bullet that can handle moderate ranges, with both great accuracy and consistent performance.
Hunters who primarily hunt in thick brush at short ranges might not need the advanced features of these bullets. Also, recreational shooters looking for budget-friendly options may find the price prohibitive. A good reloading manual and quality reloading equipment are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS
In summary, the Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS are an outstanding choice for hunters and shooters demanding top-tier performance at extended ranges. Their accuracy, ballistic coefficient, and controlled expansion make them a worthwhile investment.
The price is justified by the consistent results and confidence they instill in the field. I wholeheartedly recommend these bullets to anyone serious about long-range hunting or shooting. Upgrade your ammunition, improve your accuracy, and experience the difference the Swift Bullet Company Scirocco II Bullets .30 cal .308 BTS can make!