What mould for 7x30 for accuracy?

[Graycg]

I've been playing with the idea of shooting some cast bullets out of my 7x30 waters strictly for range work and looking for someone to recommend an accurate bullet for 100 and 200 yard groups.  Bullets will get fired out of 14 inch VVCG barrel for contender with 2x6 Trophy scope.

I'm very experience with 30 cal and larger moulds, but haven't bothered casting for 7mm in the past and don't want to have to buy an entire collection of moulds to get a good one.

thanks and regards,
 Graycg

[John Traveler]

Lee makes a 7mm 130 grain gas checked RN bullet mold.

It's been several years, but when I first started loading 7x57mm cast loads for Mausers this one gave me easy 1 1/14" groups at 100 yards out of several different rifles.  It's as-cast diameter was .285, if I remember correctly.

At only $16 for mold AND handles, it's probably a cheap and easy way to see if you like it.  Sizing die, lube pan, and punch are another $6.00.  If it doesn't work, you can always get your money back at a gun show.

John

[BCB]

Graycg,

I have both the Lee C285-130R and the Lyman 287346 molds.  Both shot fairly well from my Contender with a Super 14” barrel.  But, I would give the edge to the Lyman bullet.  Without going into details, I found that the bullet must be heat treated to a BHN of approximately 30 for any type of accuracy with velocities over 1400 fps.  I am using WC-844 (H-335 burn rate) surplus powder for a velocity of 1932 fps.  M.O.A. accuracy at 100 and 150 yards and 2.5” or less groups can be expected at 200 yards.  I just shoot a 1.2” three-shot group at 200 yards the past weekend!  This would be the exception and not the rule!  Good-luck…BCB