How slow is to slow for the Nosler Partitions? I worked a a pretty accurate load for my 7.62X39 using 150gr Partitions and X-Terminator powder. I am getting just over 2100fps. Is this to slow for the Partitions to expand properly? I'm going to be hunting whitetails at close range up to about 125 yards tops.
Before you say anything about the Nosler BT's or any other Boat Tail, I should tell you that my Ruger doesn't shoot boat tails very well, so they are out.
Thanks

They will expand just fine at the velocity range you describe.

Save your $$, and buy standard bullets...something like the 150 grain Hornady spire point, or better yet a round nose.
Given the velocities generated by the 7.62X39, there is no possible benefit from the partition other than the flat base.

It seems that the .308/150 grain PT expand fairly well at the velocity produced by a 30/06 but still seem to be on the hard side.

The advice to try a normal SP makes a lot of sense.

steve
I have killed 2 deer with the 7.62x39. I used Hansen factory @123 grain soft points. This was many years ago and this was the only SP avialable. It worked great. If I was going to use a 150 grain bullet I would use one designed for the 30-30. The Remington 30-30 bullets have a rounded nose that should feed ok.

You'd be better served by a standard bullet. The 130 grain Hornady Single Shot Pistol bullet and the 135 grain SSP from Sierra (both now discontinued but readily available) do exceptionally well at 7.62x39 velocities. Of course, you said BTs are out, but when I had a bolt action 7.62x39, the 125 grain BT and a compressed load of H335 turned in spectacular groups and terrific performance on medium game.

The Partition requires 2000 fps at impact to ensure proper expansion. Most "standard" bullets at 7.62x39 velocity will penetrate more than sufficiently, so a premium is really not necessary.

I agree w/ Bobby T, drop to a 125-130gr bullet. The NP will expand alittle under 2000fps but I would want more. A 125grNBTwould also be my choice @ about 2400fps or a 150gr bullet designed for the 30-30. BTW, is your bore .308 or .311? If it's .311, that's why your NBTs aren't doing well, The bases need to expand those last 0.003" to fill the bore. Better to use a .311 bullet like the Hornady or Speer.