Thread: 30-06 Akley improved load development

As previously mentioned I'm happy to have one for the simple fact it's different, the mighty 30 06 is already a good cartridge and even if there was no increase in velocity there are other benefits to an Ackley case (they don't require nearly as much trimming once fire formed.
When this barrel is toast I'd like to think if I still own it I'd consider 280AI or even 7mm BC if it turns out to be viable....I've got plenty of time before that's a concern.

Anyway update as promised.... a mostly frustrating day at the range with only my Sako blade load data being of any use.
There appears to be promise in the sako blade as far as accuracy is concerned with most groups shot being less than 1" (granted not a big enough data sample to make any claims) I was only shooting 2 shots at each charge weight just to check velocity.

The first was a 3 shot group as I loaded an extra round for confirmation of my bore sighting 1/2" group SD of 8.6fps

Second group SD of 24.7fps

Third group SD of 11.3fps

Fourth group SD of 1fps (2shots touching)

Fifth group SD of 9.8fps

The forth charge weight was 59gn of 2209 and gave a velocity of 2896fps I was initially disappointed as I was hoping for 3000fps.
However after coming home and reviewing sako factory loaded ammo data I am content that there may be a load worth investigating, I would need to load up 10 or even 20 and see what the true accuracy looked like but given all but the very highest charge weight were sub 1" or even sub .5" and all but 1 load showed fantastic SD consistency.

59gn group pictured (need to load a bunch of these and get a decent data set



Here is the specs from the factory loaded Sako ammo, I've managed to get over 100fps more which isn't to bad.