Hi guys I like to shoot 165GN RNFP cast from my 30-30. I have had reasonable success with my 30-30 using fast rifle powders such as H4227, H4198 and H4895, but I do not like the fact that the cartridge is so empty!

Has anyone had success using nearer to full cases of slower powders like H4350 or H4831?

Also in the 38-55 for 245GN RNFP cast bullets, has anyone had success using nearer to full cases of powders like H4895 or H322?

Finally in the 375 Win for 245GN RNFP, cast bullets, has anyone had success using nearer to full cases of powders like H4895 or H322?

My lee reloading manual seems to suggest these might be good powders, so far I have only been using my Lyman manual for loads!

I have noted of the years however a trend toward ever slower powders for cast. None of the modern manuals seem to suggest red dot, green dot or unique for a lot of cast loads anymore!

I never liked to load pistol powders with cast bullets in 30-30; too easy to get pressure spikes. I use 4198 and 3031 range of powders. Certainly you could use slow powders but you might get unburned grains. I agree with the new manuals not to use pistol powders; go with med or slow burners.

I don't see why a little slower powder couldn't be used in this application but I know H4831 is too slow and I am pretty certain H4350 is too slow. I think IMR4064 would be more in line with the performance you are seeking, but you never know until you burn some powder.

34 grs of the 4831 will give you 1800 fps in the 30-30 with your boolit.
it requires a gas check to get there though.

if you are using the storebought magma engineering mold that is the 165gr rnfp mold every commercial caster uses I'd stick to what you are doing.

quote:

Originally posted by Lamar:
34 grs of the 4831 will give you 1800 fps in the 30-30 with your boolit.
it requires a gas check to get there though.

if you are using the storebought magma engineering mold that is the 165gr rnfp mold every commercial caster uses I'd stick to what you are doing.

Is that the projectile that you are referring to? Is so then you think H4198 is the powder to stay with or do you think H4895 might be better?

I load both 150g and 170g LFPGC cast bullets for my .30/30. IMO the powder to use is AA 5744; it is a fast powder but with a high bulk density that fill the case very well. Some where between 16g and 18g should give you what you are looking for. In my 94 and 336 it doesn't get any better than AA 5744.

quote:

Originally posted by Scout Master 54:
I load both 150g and 170g LFPGC cast bullets for my .30/30. IMO the powder to use is AA 5744; it is a fast powder but with a high bulk density that fill the case very well. Some where between 16g and 18g should give you what you are looking for. In my 94 and 336 it doesn't get any better than AA 5744.

I agree. You might also try 4759. H110, 680, or 4227. roger

I forgot about 5744; that is a great powder. H110 is a ball powder and does not like to burn in reduced loads. I use 5744 in a few old BP cartridges.

quote:

Originally posted by dpcd:
I never liked to load pistol powders with cast bullets in 30-30; too easy to get pressure spikes.

So, you're saying you've experienced them?

I've used Unique and W231 w/o problems. Loaded to ~ 1,200 fps (no gas check).

A good place for cast bullet loads:

http://www.gmdr.com/lever/lowveldata.htm

If you want higher load density, try Trail Boss.

About half of your 4350 will be left in the barrel unburned.

Instead use SR4759 (my favorite), Accurate 5744, 4227 and 4198

There are many other powders that can be used including 2400 and some of the Alliant flake powders. If you do not have a Lyman cast bullet handbook and the RCBS cast bullet hand book you will be missing many of the loads with the faster powders.

In addition GDMR has a lot of data with the faster powders and cast bullets.

Just remember - always inspect every case for the proper height of the power charge so you do not double charge.

GDMR Lever Action loading data