Bill-

How did the .30-'06 prone rifle work out?

Actually worked pretty well but has already become a 6.5x55 which works even better. The 30 barrel will be utilized again in 30/06 on another action. The 6.5x55 is easier to shoot well and is at least as accurate if not moreso. You have to put a pretty heavy bullet in the 06 to match the performance of the 6.5 in the wind and there is no question in my mind that the 60+ shots per day start to affectme. Call me a wimp if you like!
I'm hoping to be practiced up sufficiently to make a mark at the "F" class world championships in Ottawa next year. I'll shoot the 6.5 for sure and not sure what else if indeed I use two rifles. I'm working on a P-14 based 303 British which will make a fine traditional Canadian entry! Regards, Bill

Thanks Bill

What twist rate, barrel length, and bullet were you using?

In your opinion, is the .30-'06 more inherently accurate than the .308 WIN?

.303 British?!! No way! I'm really fascinated by the thought of these retired service rounds in precision rifles. Anyone ever have you build a 7.62x54R?

I used a 26" 10 twist barrel. I shot 185 Berger's and 190 sierras. Both shot quite well. About the 1/2 moa level at 200m.
Is the 30.06 as accurate as the 308? No way!
The 308 is the only "hunting" cartridge which will readily produce true BR accuracy. I feel quite confident of building a 308 that will shoot 1/4 minute. The advantage of the 06 is it's abillity to handle the heavier bullets.
I havn't ever messed with the 7.62x54 though I suspect it would be a good one. I have made up a couple of 30/40 Krags that would come very close to a 308. One was a HV rifle based on a 77 Ruger action. It would shoot around the .3 level.
The only potential problem with the 303 rifle will bethe limited bullet selection with the 174 Sierra being the only match bullet choice. Regards, Bill.