If we start the 165 grainer at 2900 fips and the 180 grainer at 2700 fips, the 165 grainer will drop 3 inches less at 400 yards (with both loads zeroed at 200). Also, at 400 yards the 165 grainer will be travelling 100 fips faster than the 180 grainer.

Personally, I wobble more than 3 inches at 400 yards, so the trajectory advantage is almost moot. Also, the 200 fips difference in velocity at the muzzle is reduced to a difference of 100 fips at 400 yards due to the higher BC of the 180 grainer, so that's not a big deal either.

The real difference to me is the difference in SD. The 165 grainer has an SD of .248, while the SD of the 180 grainer is .271. That is important to me, and becomes more important as the game gets larger.

Were I to choose between the two bullets for an all-purpose load, I would opt for the 180 grainer.

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Our God reigns.
Harrumph!!!
I often use quick reply. My posts are not directed toward any specific person unless I mention them by name.