New to loading .30 -.30

[DMF38]

      I've been reloading for a few months -- just .45 Colt so far.  I plan to start reloading .30-.30 for my model 94.    I plan to neck size and fire form.    I'll be using a Lee Classic Cast Turret press with the Lee deluxe collet dies, and the factory crimp die.   My question is:  Do I need to use a headspace guage or can I just measure the length of the finished round?

[alleyyooper]

AOL is fine with a model 94

  Al

[Reed1911]

Just measure the finished round, you may find that neck sizing can only be performed once before a full length sizing is required. I'm sure you know, flat-point or round nose bullets only. BLC-2 and 3031 are both excellent powders

[PaulS]

If you match the overall length with what is called out in the reloading information you will be fine. The reason that OAL is listed is to make sure that the powder has enough room to make the pressure it needs to do the job of getting the bullet down the barrel safely. If you seat the bullet deeper it will give more pressure so following the load data exactly is important.

[alleyyooper]

I use IMR 3031, works good in the 308 too.

   Al

[Little Joe]

Hello DFM38
I would not neck size a 30-30 if you were going to use it in a Winchester model 94. Full Length resize them. The 94 will not give you much if any benefit in group size at the range you should be hunting at. This is a 150 yard rifle at best. I would be more concerned that my loaded rounds cycled smoothly through the action. The model 94 is not that strong of action for caming power. The rifle you have is a great one as I also load for a Winchester 94 as well as a Marlin 336. Most folks that do neck size only for the 30-30 are using a Thompson Center single shot or a savage 340 bolt action. Always use a round nose or flat point bullet with your Winchester 94. Pointed bullets could strike the primer of another cartridge in the tubular magazine from the recoil because the tip of that bullet is resting on the primer of the cartridge in front of it. That would not be good and could cause an injury or worse. When loading the 30-30, put a good crimp on the bullet you are using. This should be covered in the instructions of the die set. I have loaded the 30-30 for many years and have found that IMR 3031 and Winchester 748 powders have worked well for me.  Check out the link below. I think you will enjoy thisYou might want to print it out and save. Welcome to the world of reloading.

http://www.leverguns.com/articles/taylor/model94_3030.htm


Little Joe