Loading Data for 8mm-06

[jasonprox700]

I friend of mine at work would like for me to reload for his 8mm-06.  He would like to stick with 175-180 grain bullets.  I pointed him in the direction of the Sierra Pro Hunters.  What would be good powders to go with?  I am still at work, so I haven't been home yet to check my manuals.  Just wanted to see if anybody had any pet loads.

[wncchester]

Okay, I don't do this often, usually suggest the poster to refer to a loading manual!  But, the old wildcat 8mm/06 isn't likely to show up in any manual printed in the last 40 years so I'll do it for you.

My P.O. Ackley's "Handbook for Shooters and Reloaders", Vol 1, pg. 461, 1966, has the following MAX load data for 170 gr. bullets":

62/IMR 4350   -   2890 fps
57/IMR 4320   -   2840     
57/IMR 4895   -   2930
54/IMR 4964   -   2800
52/IMR 3031   -   2815
58/H-380        -   2855

I would note that P.O. was a VERY knowledgable rifleman but sometimes his loads ran a bit hot.  He  knew what HE was doing but I would approch his maximums very cautiously and STOP when any pressure signs appear.

[jasonprox700]

I found a few loads in the hornady and speer manuals, but my 4th edition Nosler doesn't have it.  I'll try some listed above and a few in the manuals.  Thanks

[LaOtto222]

The 8mm-06 is still a popular round and with good reason. The only draw back is the bullet selection for the 8mm is very limited compared to 308 bullets. I have 4 loading books with modern data. Sierra Edition V 2nd Printing; Nosler 5th edition; Hornady 7th Edition; Speer 14th Edition all have loading data for it. Up to date books have up to date data, using modern powders and usually with pressure testing equipment. I have older books dating back to the 70's, but I still get updated ones. I suggest you pick up 2 or more of them before loading and use their data. When you have more than one source of data, some times you will find quite a bit of difference between a load in one book compared to another. That is why I like several books to give me a better idea of a good starting point. Maybe the guy you are loading for will spring for the cost of one or at least half to help with your costs. Good Luck and Good Shooting.

JFYI use at your own risk

Nosler 5th edition; 180 Solid Base Ballistic Tip; 24" barrel 1-10" twist; Case Winchester 30-06; primer Fed 210M

IMR4350 starting load 52.0 for 2525 fps; Max 56.0 for 2704 - starting load most accurate tested

Sierra Edition V 2nd printing: 175 SPT; 26" barrel 1-10" twist; Case Federal 30-06; Primer Fed 210

IMR4350 starting load 52.2 for 2500 fps; Max 58.9 for 2850 fps