I started reloading for the 30/30 last night a was going with 36gr of IMR 4895. My question, the case appears full (powder is just past shoulder). I am wondering if this is normal for the 30/30 case or should I be getting a second scale to check my measurements. I only dropped about 10 cases and they all were the same, very full. Any advice is much appreciated.
36gr. would come very close to filling the case, I couldn't find any IMR data for a 125gr. bullet but 38gr. max sounds awfully high, even 36gr. sounds like alot. I would find some other source of data to confirm what you have listed especialy if you are loading for a lever action.
I did some more searching and found 1 manual that I have listing (H)-4895 with a 125gr. bullet at a max. of 37gr. H and IMR 4895 are made by 2 different companys but are simular enough that most load data are within a half a grain of each other so take it for what it's worth.
The load data I am using is from Sierra. They list a 36.8 max charge. The case just seems so full. I could likely seat a bullet, but there would be little space between the powder and the bullet (almost compressed?). I think I will check the data, re-check the measurements and maybe backoff another grain or so.
Thirty-six grains could well be a compressed load in your 30-30. Nothing to worry about, as long as the load isn't too warm. You'll be crimping them anyway, right?
A second scale is just about mandatory for reloading, if for nothing else than peace of mind. It's easy to get a poise on the wrong detent, and be off by five grains (or something else, depending on the scale).
I'd start at least 5% under listed max, as my initial load for any new caliber or firearm.
Historically, the 30-30, at least in lever actions, will show its disdain for too high pressures by scattering shots all over the target.
R-WEST
------------------ "the spotlight of truth will cause the cockroaches of deceit to run for cover every time" Rush Limbaugh
Posts: 1483 | Location: Windber, PA | Registered: 24 January 2001
These loads will be shot out of a Rem 788 bolt action, but I am going to take your advice (and others) and back it down several grains. The case just seemed very full(but I could seat a bullet), but I am not certain what a compressed laod is, so I always want to play it on the safe side. Will I gain much frm the crimp, I was going to crimp some and not others...
BJK. If you are shooting them in a bolt action, a crimp is not necessary unless the load is compressed. So, in your case, you can crimp or not, as it suits you. I'd try both ways to see which gives you the best accuracy. Paul B.
Posts: 2814 | Location: Tucson AZ USA | Registered: 11 May 2001
You may want to try IMR-4064, WW-748, or IMR-3031 in your 30-30. It is always a good idea to check more than one reloading manual when loading a given cartridge. Few cartridges require compressed powder charges. The large Magnum cases with very slow burning powder sometimes do have compressed loads. Since your shooting a bolt action 30-30 that action is much stronger than a lever action rifle. It is never a good idea to exceed the maximum powder charge listed.
