30/30 Cast loads wanted for Marlin 336

[Flash]

I have a 160 grain Lee round nose gas check and am looking to hear from current users of this bullet in their Marlin. I have a vast selection of powders at my disposal so the powder choice isn't an issue. I want opinions and experiences, regardless if they're good or bad.

[Leftoverdj]

First opinion is that bullet size is critical in Marlin barrels. You want them .310-.311. Crimp your GCs on and lube with a .311 sizer die and hope. Lee moulds run pretty tight and that's the best you can do. I've supplied one of my buds with Lee C312-155-2R sized .311 and they shoot superlatively well in his Handi (Same barrels as Marlin). You'd want to use a tube mag rifle as a two shooter to use those.

I don't have much Marlin .30-30 experience, but I do have quite a bit of Marlin/NEF cast bullet experience in other calibers. I favor fast rifle powders and velocity levels around 1800 fps. XMP 5744 is my favorite for this kind of work, but either of the 4198s and H 322 do well. Re 7 is very well spoken of, but I have never tried it myself.

[Flash]

Well, my bullets drop from the mold at .311 and I never size or crimp gas checks, regardless of the caliber. I've managed to work up nice loads for every firearm I shoot cast bullets with but wanted to skip the long drawn out procedure by asking.

[Flash]

Was thumbing through some magazines that were "Keepers" from over the years and came across a Bullet Making Annual with just what I needed. The gun, the bullet and a good selection of powders.

[Flash]

Wow, 11 grains of Herco put 5 shots on top of one another at 25 yards. I was amazed at the accuracy of this load. A real good one for the 336!!