shot my new 7mm-08 and .357 mag barrels again

[dhnut1973]

got my new barrels 3-4 weeks ago and have 75 down the .357 and 70 through the 7mm-08. the 357 shot great from the start with 158gr jsp from magtech. the 7mm-08 was a different story though. I shot 2 boxes of winchester 140gr PP and 1 box of federal 150gr. I never could get it to group consistently. the shots were like a shotgun blast. after each box I cleaned thoroughly which consisted of solvent and bore-brushed 60 times. so it was either that or the 140gr rem core-lokt cause today I finally got it dialed in. only shot 10 rounds. the very last 2 were shot together, they were touching and about 1.5 inches high at 100 yards. this made me extremely happy. I think I have turned the corner with this barrel.

I still want to try the hornady LM but this will be good for now. they both are a blast to shoot and I can't wait to use them on deer. I have heard that out of a rifle the 357 mag works good on deer to 100 or so yards. anyone out there have any experience with a 357 mag handi and deer? we all know the 7mm-08 is a great deer or bear round so no doubts there. sorry this is so long but I thought I would let everyone know about my progress.

[wcf3030]

Always interested to hear about 357mag barrel.
If you don't handload try Buffalo Bore for some stout loads.

[dhnut1973]

thanks for the info, I'll have to try them out.

[handi243]

dhnut i think Graybeard has used the LM in 7mm08 if i remember right you may check with him.

[darat100]

dhnut

I don't know about others, but I would think the 357 at 100 yards would really be pushing it.  You better make sure shot placement is right.  If you want that, I would really suggest reaming it to a max.  I don't think I would want to shoot anything more than a little doe over 75 yards or so.  That being said, dad dropped one in its tracks last year about 50 yards and I have done the same with my ruger GP100.  No doubt the caliber is capable, just don't stretch it too far.

Just my opinion

[bishopgrandpa]

My 7mm-08 put remington 140's all over the place. Loaded hornady 139 and rem 140 over varget and 4064 (close to the same) and got 1" groups. Handloading seems to be what it likes.