Anyone have reloading data on this critter, any pet loads that they care to share?

Merkel k1 Stalking Rifle, 9.3 x 74R


Three groups provided with ammo by the original owner.





Two shots off the bench to check zero before I took it hunting. The load is the IMR 4831 powder.



First outing the hogs did not co-operate.
Second outing I nailed this small sow. DRT of course.



Here is the "poop" from the Barnes Number 4 manual on loading the 286 gr. TSX. As my rifle came with 100 rounds loaded with 286 gr. partitions, I have not yet tried the Barnes.


Best,

The asterisk incicates that the most accurate load in their test was Varget.

GWB

GWB,

You have to be the most interesting and helpful poster on this forum. Great pictures and info for the OP. Keep up the good work, it's a real pleasure.

GeeDub,

How's the recoil on the K1? I have one in 7mm Rmag and at 6.5# scoped it's a bit on the sharpish side on the recoil. I'd have to think in 9.3x74r it's...stout?

As an aside, I've been thinking of trying to find another barrel in 9.3x74r...hence my question!

mdstewart,

thanks for the kind words, but I tell folks that I operate within a narrow band of mediocrity. Don't do anything real good, but don't do anything real bad.

rnovi,

I've not fired that rifle but three times. Twice off the bench with the aid of a lead sled and once at the hoglet in the picture. I'm 5'8" and 190 lbs. I do not consider myself to be particularly recoil sensitive. I get in quite a bit of trigger time. Lots of small caliber stuff and the rest off a weighted lead sled. Consequently I've not developed a flinch.
I still get "pumped" when shooting game so I typically do not notice the recoil of the rifle. I don't recall the K1 having a particularly sharp recoil. Not like an unbraked 300 RUM or a 458 Lott in the Ruger#1 with full power loads.

Good luck on finding a barrel for your K1 in 9.3 x 74R. I spoke with Einar Hoff of Styer/Merkel on a number of occasions. I was trying to find a Stutzen barrel. Chances are you could order one shipped from Steyr Arms on a special order. The K1 barrels do not seem to be as easy to come by as Blaser components.
PM me if you want details.

Best,

GWB

I have a Blaser K95 with a 20" 9.3x74 barrel, and I won't lie. It kicks like a mule. My first 9.3x74 is on an Encore platform with a 20" full bull MGM barrel, so the gun weighs nearly 10 pounds and is a pleasure to shoot.

I have now killed several hogs with a 9.3x74, and it has proven to be the hammer of Thor.

m;y double likes 65 gr of 4831

quote:

Originally posted by butchloc:
m;y double likes 65 gr of 4831

My Chapuis is close, 64 grains of IMR 4831 with a Fed 215. Tried 4-5 different 286 grain bullets and they all shoot to the same POI at 50 yards. Last two moose did not like the load at all

I have used the 286 and 250 gr. Barnes bullets in my 9.3x62 and thats close enough to tell you they will work in your double rifle..I would however suggest that you use the TSX with the big grooves in a double as the pressure build up is supposed to be much less.
both bullet kill well, as does the 286 gr. Nosler partition, one of my favorite bullets, but then North Fork, GS Customs and Swift all make great bullets for the 9.3x74.

Alaskaman, I have a Tikka O/U double rifle in 9.3x74R (512SD).I do not use the Barnes but do use the Nosler Partition in 286gr. My best load is 66 grs. of H414. I can post pictures of the targets later if you are interested. I have only shot it out to 100 yards, but this load shoots very well.
Peter.