Thread: 180 gn in 30-30

I've got some Smith&Wesson .308 dia180gn RN SP jacketed bullets to try in my 1984 made Marlin 336C microgrove with 18.5in barrel and 1:10 twist. I figure these were probably made for a 308 LA rather than a 30-30 but hey...

Plan is to work up a load with IMR 3031 by cross referencing and extrapolating from what the cast bullet lot are doing with cast 180s. Seeing as there is no published data for more than 173gn currently. I have other suitable powders also but IMR 3031 is first choice because its is fairly broad spectrum and forgiving.

I'd be keen on a velocity around 1800fps or better. Not really interested in subsonic in the 30-30 but if they turn out to not work so well I will use them in a 308 and then maybe as subs.

I'm interested in info/ comments from any one who has already been down this path of 30-30 18ogn loads. Or any info on the expected performance of a big blunt soft nose at this kind of velocity. I've never used any other S&W projectiles.

Rounds will be used for general field hunting on goats and deer in the 100-150m max range but mostly under 75m. Possibly also pigs at max 50m.

Rifle wears a Vortex Crossfire II Scout Scope.

Cheers. J.