Why so much under MAP?
Personal preference alone or a more concrete reason such as a safety margin against possible pressure spikes?
Increased barrel life, increased safety margin, often increased consistency, insignificant "loss" in down-range performance.
The faster a bullet leaves the muzzle, the faster it slows-down � in proportion to the square of the muzzle velocity. 'Tisn't unusual to see a three-figure "sacrifice" in muzzle velocity dwindle to a two-figure drop in down-range velocity.
The difference between 3,850 ft/sec and 3,800 ft/sec isn't enough to warrant pushing Pmax to the squeeky-thin ultimate. Muzzle velocity is the world's worst index of performance.
