10 March 2008, 10:15
steve4102Bullet Selection Help
I could use some advise on bullet selection. What do you think would be the best bullet choice for Whitetails out to about 150-175 yards with a 7.62x39?
I have worked up accurate loads with the following bullets.
125gr Nosler BT, 2450fps
135gr Sierra Pro Hunter, 2350fps
130gr Speer 30-30 FN, 2400fps
150gr Nosler BT, 2170fps
150gr Barnes 30-30 FN, 2150fps
150gr Hornady 30-30 RN, 2170fps
10 March 2008, 10:29
WestCoasterSteve
Are you talking an autoloader or bolt rifle?
If its an auto I think I might like the ballistic tip over a lead tip version. Also a little higher initial velocity (125-130 gr) to make sure the bullet gets out there and performs. The heavier bullets like the 150's might not expand much on a no bone hit. Hmmm would you need to crimp it also, that might rule out a few bullets right there if no canelure? Hornady 125 has a canelure, as does the Speer 123 gr.
Well good luck with the selection, hope you find a good combo.
10 March 2008, 10:43
AtkinsonThey all will work just fine, as to which one is the best, that would be hard to say as the results would be about the same. At the velocities you mention, they will all expand under most any conditions..
10 March 2008, 20:07
jro45I shoot the 150 hornady bullet with my 30/06 for deer. Also I have A 7mm Mag , a 257 WBY, And more.
10 March 2008, 21:11
ReloaderAt the low velocities of this cartridge, I don't personally feel you'll have any problems with the performance of any of the bullets mentioned for medium game. Pick the one that shoots the best and go hunting. I personally would pick the light NBT if it gave good accuracy and deer were the game.
Good Luck
Reloader
10 March 2008, 21:24
prof242I don't have the 7.63x39, but have given several T/C Contender carbines in .30/30 to grandchildren. The lighter bullets (125-135gr), with the velocities you've quoted, have all worked well on mule deer here in Colorado. I'd just choose whichever is the most accurate and go hunting.