Still searching...Maybe

[Kid Sopris]

Both my Marlin Model 36 from 1946 and the 1940 Winchester Model 94 have been in need of good Cast Bullet Loads. In my last report I was experimenting with a Proven powder IMR 3031, and Laser Cast, 170 gr. RNFPGC.

The Marlin and Winchester produced some respectable test groups at 25 yards, but the nature of the powder is probably best used in Jacketed rounds.

The Marlin w/ 22.8 gr. IMR 3031:


The Winchester w/22.8 gr. IMR 3031:


So I tried another good mix...some Hodgdon H335. Same range, same guns, same bullets, same 25 yard testing with 3 shots .

Marlin w/ 23.5 gr. H335:


Winchester w/ 24.0 gr. H335:


I think I am getting close...maybe..

Now before you ask, I use these bright targets because I can't see as good as I use to. And Yes open Sights.

[flanman]

OUtstanding shootin Kid or was that your kid shootin the lower targets. flanman

[smkummer]

I have been casting both the Lyman 311291 and 311041 bullets and using 28 grains of 5744 out of both my 1903A3 springfield and Colt light rifle in 30-06. I am getting 2 in. groups at 100 yards (much easier with the scoped rifle but possible with the 03A3 sights). These 170 grain bullets are going out at about 2200 FPS (30-30 energy and recoil) and are so much more pleasurable to shoot. A friend of mine shot a medium wild hog with this load and it completely penetrated the hog and dropped him in his tracks.