I was given a .250 Savage by a family member, and was wondering if anyone has any good loads worked up that would be appropriate for antelope or possibly a deer. Any other info on the .250 would be appreciated as well.
The 250-3000 is probably my favorite round for deer and black bear. I've used it on numerous of these species and none have taken EVEN A STEP after being hit. All mine are bolt guns, some factory and some custom, so I load it to 50,000 CUP instead of the SAAMI 45,000 CUP.
What kind of gun were you given? A Savage 99? If so, might be a good idea to keep it to 45,000 CUP. Anyway, I like Re15 and CC1200 primers for the 250-3000 for 100, 115, 117, and 120 gr bullets - it has replaced H414 as my favorite 250-3000 powder. Start with 30 gr with the 100 gr and start with 27 gr with the 115-120s. Every rifle is different, so be sure to watch for pressure signs.
As for bullets. I like the Speer 100(s), the Nosler 115 BT, the Sierra 117(s), the Hornady 120, and Speer 120(s).
Anyway, don't let the 6mm fanfare sway you, the 250-3000 and the 257 Roberts are superior big game rounds. JMO...