Author Topic: Range for loads (Read 748 times)

flatlander · « **on:** January 20, 2003, 02:57:56 AM »

I'm wanting to load my super 14 30/30 with either 150 or 165 grn bullets. As a rule of thumb, what is the minimum velocity required to get good expansion, or how much retained energy do I need to keep? I'm wanting something to use as a starting point for determining my load and maximum range for the round, and I will do some testing when I have the load worked up. I guess I'm just trying to see how much range a 160 will cost over the 150 for deer sized game. I know that I can move down to a smaller bullet but I would rather stay with a heavier round if it will be adequate for 150 yards or more. If not, we'll go with the 130 grain bullets. Thanks for the info in advance.

kirkwhitaker · « **Reply #1 on:** January 20, 2003, 03:23:20 AM »

i have an old 6 groove barrel...like 1979 or...is very accurate...my load has been for several years, the hornady rn 30-30 bullet...don't think about spitzers unless you are talking 125 gr ballistic tips or 135 gr sierra ssp bullets...the 30-30 is a 150 yd round with a 150gr bullet. Mine run about 2100fps up near max...if you have a newer barrel with equal lands and grooves you may not get quite that hot before you see pressure...but always follow load manuals and work up slow..my fav powder for the 30-30 is rel 7....i hunted with a load at 1950 for a number of years..duplicating factory ammo in this barrel...was very accurate...in the 27 gr range in my barrel..the hornady will expand down to 1500fps or so....so you have more than enough thump for deer at 150yds left...but remember, it ain't no cannon..shot placement it everything with a tc.
my advice, get a box of 150gr sierra, hornady or such 30-30 bullets and start at 26gr and work up in 5 round batches... 1/2 gr per batch... till you get to 2000fps or pressure...but check your load manual first...and watch for pressure...your barrel ain't mine...don't crimp and if you can seat out close to the lands...but don't touch...

flatlander · « **Reply #2 on:** January 20, 2003, 03:34:25 AM »

Thanks. That's what I've been confused about. I've had some people telling me 150 grain bullets will shoot 200, and others telling me they won't. Will the 165 grain bullets give you 150 yards? Or is the velocity reduction enought to cut you back? I just was looking for some practical views from other contender guys who have been there.

RonF · « **Reply #3 on:** January 20, 2003, 03:44:42 AM »

I think the 165 gr. bullets are designed for a higher velocity than you can get out of the Contender in .30-30. I think the Nosler 150 BT would expand at these velocities and will give a bit flatter trajectory, but I'm not convinced it would be enough for 200 yds. Accept the .30-30 for what it is; a 150 yd deer cartridge. Work on becoming a better hunter and getting closer.

RonF

PJ · « **Reply #4 on:** January 20, 2003, 05:00:58 AM »

I had a 30-30 Super-14 and only shot Hornadys 150gr SP Interlocks with 32.5grs of IMR4064.Every deer I shot from 25yrds to 160yrds droped with one shot bullet gave very good expantion and all had exit holes the size of a quarter.

jhalcott · « **Reply #5 on:** January 20, 2003, 06:14:04 AM »

165 hornady's, according to their book, are good for 2200 fps to 3300 fps!Can you get 2200 fps from your T/C at 100 yards!SAFELY?jh

flatlander · « **Reply #6 on:** January 20, 2003, 06:24:11 AM »

Nope. 165's are definitely out. I'm going to go with either 130 single shot bullets or 150 grain Ballistic tips. Right now I'm leaning toward the 130's. It was worth asking, but the round just won't do what I was asking it to. That's ok. I'll take it hunting and it will work just fine. If not, we can always go back to the rechambering option. I'd just as soon keep it as is, though.