Best Powders for the .223 Rem.?

[dovehunter]

While we're on the subject of loading for my new .223 Rem., I was wondering about powders. I first tried IMR 3031 based on a review of all my loading manuals and the fact that I had some on hand that I have been using for my .30-30 BA. I loaded it behind Sierra's 52 gr. HPBT bullets that have given spectacular accuracy in my .225 Win. Over the range of charge weights I tried I was getting 5-shot groups of 1-2" at 100-yds. Not that great when you consider I was getting 3/4" groups using Federal's Premium factory loads which used essentially the same bullet: Sierra's 55 gr. HPBT Game King.

A trip back to the loading manuals suggested that Hodgdon's Benchmark or Varget powders may be good choices for the .223. I was a little concerned anyway when I noticed even the starting loads for IMR 3031 needed to be compressed. I've never been that wild about using compressed loads though I know it is common practice. It appears that Varget loads would also be compressed.

What do you guys think? Should I try one of the other powders I mentioned or maybe some other brand and/or weight of bullet? I'd kind of like to hear from someone having experience loading for the .223 if possible. I'd like to keep the "trial by dollar" working up of a good handload to a minimum if I can.