What powder should I use?

26 July 2008, 08:46

Caleb A.

I am trying to work up a load for a 30-06. I am planning on using a 180 grain Barnes X bullet. But I don't know what kind of powder I should use for it. I was hoping that someone on here could help me out?

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26 July 2008, 08:52

Slatts

I like RL-22 in the 300win. You might consider it for the 30-06 as well.

Before accepting internet advice, such as mine above, you really should get some reloading manuals if you don't have some. I suggest getting the bullet manufacturers manual (in your case Barnes) and several others.

I typically check 5 or more references while contemplating a powder/bullet combination. Then , you always must work up in powder weight and check for pressure signs. Always. You only have one face and right hand (if you're right handed).

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26 July 2008, 10:16

vapodog

There's at least three great powders for a .30-06 and 180 gran bullets.....
1. H (or IMR) 4350
2. H-414 (Win 760)
3. RL-22

Any of the three will allow you to push the bullet out the barrel at 2,800'/sec prudently loaded!

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26 July 2008, 10:42

seafire2

you may have to work up to it with the Barnes X, I am not sure, but it would be prudent..

for any other 180 grain bullet in the 06, I always use 50 grains of IMR 4064..large rifle primer..

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26 July 2008, 19:18

Doc

My favorites:

Re19
Varget
Re22
H414
IMR or Hodg 4350
IMR 4064 (this one works so well I have 9 pounds just for 5 30.06s)

I've had equal success with IMR4064, Re19, and Varget, so those would be my top choices.

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26 July 2008, 20:47

smedley

Me, I like H4831 but, that's me.

It looks like you got lot's of choices.

Got any other calibers you are loading for? If so you may be able to use just one powder but, then again you may want to be like the rest of us and buy a few different powders and see which one your rifle likes most!

Rifles are like babies, strained peas may be one liked but, strained carrots may be spit out!

The 4350's are a good go to powder but, may not be the best for squeezing out that extra little bit!

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27 July 2008, 17:31

Luckyducker

I have had very good luck with H4831SC with 150's, 165's, and 180 grain bullets. I have heard that IMR4350 is also a good choice for the 06 but haven't tried it.

Dennis
Life member NRA

27 July 2008, 17:45

KSTEPHENS

I use H4895.

An old man once told me that if you could reprime a 22lr, H4895 would work.
Its really a very good powder in almost everything i have ever tried. my 180 gr 30-06 load in 46 grains.

27 July 2008, 23:20

bartsche

Well if you look at all the recommended powders in this thread, no matter which of these you select you can't very well go wrong, especially if your intent is to go hunting.

roger