168 Gold Dots in the 30/06

[Cwlongshot]

I have worked up one load with StaBal ).5 in a 22" Mauser. Velocity is 2840 and just under 3/4" accuracy.

I have been picking these up regularly so Im not caught flat footed with no projectiles is Speer up a deletes these as they too often will. Grrr. Anyhow. I have a good quantity and want to work up some 165's in a new Winchester Stainless. I would like the 165 GrandSlams but having difficulties getting a quantity. I have 150 or so pcs. I would like a temp insensitive powder but dont have enough StaBall and dont Find more. I do have Varget and H4350. Varget is slower so H4350.
So far I have pushed them to 2950 but not great accuracy. 1.35". Trying the 168's next...

Anyone using these at these higher velocities? I understand its a "308" bullet so 1/150 fps slower.

What say you guys?

CW

 

[Joec7651]

I like the Gold Dots very much. I shoot the 150 grain variety from my 308 Win at 2980 fps and CFE223. A few things about this load surprised me.

First was the velocity of 2980 fps while having no pressure signs. It’s a less than max Hodgdon load.

Second, they are very consistently going into 1/2” at 100 yards.

Third is on game performance. Shot a small 4 point at 70ish yards in WV a few years ago. The Gold Dot retained 139 grains of weight, with a perfect mushroom. Disintegrated the near side shoulder knuckle, and stopped under the far side hide after breaking a rib of the far side. It’s a truly bonded bullet, the Deer dropped in its tracks, and the bullet looked like a chunk of chewed bubblegum, but it sure held together. I like them very much. I have no doubt that the 168’s will work very nicely for you.

Maybe try CFE223 in your ‘06. It works great in the 30-06. It loads at the top end of the velocity curve. It’s not temp stable but I’ve spent a good bit of both range time, and hunting with it and never saw any difference in POI. It’s also readily available just about anywhere.

 

[Joec7651]

Also, Cabela’s has Staball 6.5 for $53.99. Have it shipped to the closest Cabela’s or Bass Pro, you pick it up in store and they ship it free. When you have it shipped to store it gets free shipping and no hazmat charge. Certain days will have promo codes for a further discount. They will also ship it to your home but that will be charged the hazmat fee. If you’re a veteran or first responder we get an extra 10% off across the board, even firearms.

 

[Joec7651]

Here is the Speer load data. You’ll be hard pressed to find many powders that will best H4350 in the ‘06. It’s temp stable, gives great accuracy, and close to top velocities. I have however hear many on here sing praises for SB 6.5 in your ‘06. I think it gets the best velocities of all powders in the ‘06. It flat sets the bullets on fire.

 

[Cwlongshot]

Thanks fellers!

So far I have shot two test loads with H4350 and Hornady 165 BTSP and 168 GD bullets.

The Hornadys allowed past 59.5g and 2940 fps. The Speer showed stiff bolt @ 57.8g and 2900 fps.

Accuracy was right @ 1 MOA for first couple loads then expanded to 1.75 W/ Hornady and 2.15" W/ GD. Ill try the 165 Grand Slam next. I could probably. BE OK with 2875 fps. As long as accuracy is there. 2900 is target for this 24" Bbl.

I will try Varget next. Then if I can get some more, Sta-BALL 6.5.

I did work up a .780 2860 fps load with sta-ball 6.5 and a 168g GD in my 22" Mauser 30/06. That same load is 2.25 moa in this Winchester!!! Its also about the same velocity!!! Woulda been nice to have same load shoot in both guns...

I just re stocked my Winchester in a pillar and glass bed Hogue stock.