I havent forgoten you guys. I just havent been able to get out shooting for a couple days to try that last batch of loads. I doubt tommarow either as were suppose to get thunderstorms all day and ive got some lake trout brining for the smoker tomarow but maybe ill get out Wednsday and try them.
Everything in its time.... Enjoy my friend!!
I can't say I have a good reason for sticking with 180 + bullets in my '06's. I know 180 is about optimal as any heavier the balance of velocity/energy and bullet weight begins to become unbalanced. If you pick your bullets, the days of non expansion of 180's on deer are gone. Some 180's are best left to the magnums while others will work well in the 300 Savage... Another reason I like the RN bullet. You really don't loose enough to mention unless your shooting past 300 and reguardless of what many say. (Our friend, Roger EXCLUDED) 300 yards is farther then most of us have any business shooting.
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As I mentioned somewhere, I load 150 semi pointed Norma bullets in a '06 for a very good hunting friend.
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He LOVES them!! For me I'll take the 30-30. 300 Savage or even the 308 for the light bullets. My 307 is dedicated to the discontinued Speer 165 RN bullet. Its an awesome bullet @ 308 velocities!
Bad barrel is about as good a reason as I could think of. As I mentioned I have had a 'few' Rugers and yet to see one that shot well. My brother has a real good shooter in 270 stainless steel.
Best of luck making yours shoot!
CW