Most accurate load cor the 168's in .30-06?

[sniper208]

I want to reload for accuracy - LONG range (300 yds. +), using Nosler Custom 168gr. My rifle is a Sig SHR970, 22" bbl. 1:10 RH twist. I don't have the time, money or facitilities to work up a load from scratch. I am hoping to have others' experiences help narrow my starting point.

I use Remington brass with Remington 9 1/2 large rifle primers. I spoke with a ballistic tech at Nosler who suggested 57.0 gr of IMR 4350. I have the 2nd ed. manual that states 53.0 is the most accurate load tested and 55.0 gr. is maximum. I like this edition as it uses a 22" bbl. with a 1:10 twist (it's close to my specs). I then looked in one of Dad's books - the paperback, spiral bound caliber-specific (takes all manuals for the .30-06 and combines into one publication). This book uses Nosler's 3rd book and it lists (IMR 4350) 52.0 gr. as the most accurate and 56.0 as maximum. It also uses a 23.5 Wiseman test barrel.

Where do I start and is the original suggestion of 57.0 gr. of IMR 4350 OK to use since it is over both books printed maximums? I already have enough Partitions (165, 180 and 200) to last my lifetime for hunting. I now want to kill paper at long ranges. Thanks!

 

[rick smith]

I think it is the Hodgdon site that lists 60grs of IMR-4350 as max with the 165gr bullet. I use 58.8grs with the Berger 168gr VLD. My normal load for a 30/06 is 58.5-58.8 grs of IMR-4350 with a 165gr bullet. Have used that load in no less than ten different 30/06s without any problems. I have used the same brass for over ten loads without the primer pocket becoming loose, had to anneal the case mouths a couple times. Work up to that load and I think you will be pleased with the accuracy.Rick.

 

[JD338]

Note that IMR4350 powder is used with great results for good reason.

Keep in mind that as time goes on, different powder lots may have slightly different pressure readings. Also, liability has reared it head and all loading data is more conservative because of uncontrolable variables.

Work up your loads and your rifle will tell you where the sweet spot is.

JD338

 

[sniper208]

Thanks for the advice....I found my rifle's sweet spot for the 165 SST's. 57.3 grains of IMR 4350 yielded 2900 fps and .400" group. Unclenick (different site) helped with the calculation.