I got a box of 250 gr hornies from a guy getting rid of reloading components. I didn't think to ask whether they were spitzers or rn, but turns out rn. Not a problem, as I'd wanted to try some anyhow. Just wondering if folks have found that they prefer different loads then the spitzers.

With the spitzers I really have to push them to group. I'm hoping I can get the rn's to group at less then red line levels.

Paul. I have done only limited shooting with the Hornady RNs in my two Whelens. They do seem to be a bit more accurate though from the little shooting I've done with them. I came across a good deal of Remington factory stuff, and got a large supply.
If you want to see some "Balls to the wall" loading data for the Whelen, check out (www.sixgunner.com) There is a past issues section. Go to the Paco Kelly article on the .35 Whelen to see what he has done with the cartridge. If nothing else, I think you'll find it an entertaining read.
Paul B.

Paul,

I've read Paco's articles, and e-mailed him on occasions. Actually my whelen is an Ackley improved, and my std load pushes a 250 gr a-frame 2700 fps. I want an accurate load at 2400 fps, but when I drop to those levels, moa groups become 3 to 5 moa. I've tried RL 15, Varget and VV N550, and all produce the same accuracy results.

I'm considering trying H 4350 to see if a slower powder will produce reduced velocity accuracy.

I got a couple of boxes of factory ammo(250gr RN) when I bought my Whelen several years ago. It shot OK about 1 1/2" groups at best. I shot one deer and several hogs with them. They absolutely flatten game. Much better killer than the pointed soft points. The best shooting factory ammo is Federals Trophy Bonded 225gr. I consistantly get sub moa with them. I am sure with some tweaking you can get the 250 gr RN to shoot better. I haven't had time to fool with them yet.

Hey Paul H, I've not used those specific Hornady bullets, but they "might" just have a design feature you would appreciate - two diameter design.

In a whole lot of the Hornady RNs, the portion of the bullet "forward" of the cannelure is Bore Diameter and the portion "aft" is Groove Diameter. It ends up reducing the Pressure of a specific Load, so be careful using Loads you develop with them behind regular bullets. It also helps get the bullet started straight into the barrel which helps with accuracy. And after you mess with them awhile, you will notice the actual Point of Impact difference between the RNs and the Super Slick (high B.C.) bullets just doesn't amount to anything significant out to 400yds or so.

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Good hunting and clean 1-shot kills, Hot Core

Paul,

I shoot a 338-06 Ackley Improved with 250 gr Hornaday RN as the primary load. A wonderfully accurate and powerful load is 55.5 grs. 4064 for 2600fps and 3754fpe. This load will do everything and then some that the old .318 WR will do, as that is what I was shooting for.

-Catter

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Shoot the largest caliber you can shoot well, and and practice , practice, practice.