Thread: Is 59 grains of H4350 safe for a 180g bullet in a 30-06?

sorry, I'm not looking for somebody to tell me out of the blue: "eh, sounds safe". I was hoping somebody shoots this load themselves and can tell me if they are expiriencing any pressure signs. __________________ Simplicity is the greatest sophistication.

Like NC said, get a good reloading book. Mine shows that the load you ask about is excessive. Additionally, when you change one component you need to restart at the starting load again and work up the load in your firearm. I don't mean to "talk down" to you but in the interest of safety.... __________________ Varminthound "Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge." -- Charles...

I realize the current load data is a bit anemic but I tend to trust the powder manufacturer's load data. Hodgdon lists the Max charge of H4350 under a 180gr SIE SPBT at 57.5gr so I'm guessing 59.0gr is pushing the limits and will probably be over-pressure. I normally load a 165/168gr bullet in the 30-06 and I use 57.0gr to 58.0gr charges depending upon the bullet I use. I would try starting much lower than 59.0gr with a 180gr bullet...

I think that you better invest in a bullet puller if you do not have one. I know that I cannot give you the ok to pull the trigger on that load. NCsmitty __________________ "Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth." Abraham Lincoln.

The 59.0 gr IMR4350 w/180gr bullet load exceeds the maximum loads in several of my references. My notes also show that 57.5 gr IMR4350 with 180gr bullet is a compressed charge, and that is working hard to get all of it in to Win cases with a long drop tube and vibration. It would be interesting for you to pull a few of these loads and see what they actually weigh. __________________ I pledge allegiance to the Flag - - -, and to the Republic...

Quote: I know the 30-06 is a relatively low pressure cartridge to begin with. __________________ "The difference between theory and practice is, that in theory, there is no difference between theory and practice, but in practice, there is." -- Jim Watson, THR Member

Hi, Michael. The answer is "No". Your rifle (and your Dad!) are too valuable. Love them both and take care of them.

I see a bit of a problem with someone going straight to maximum powder charge for a new cartridge or firearm without proper work up to begin with much less starting with an over max powder charge. This is just not a good practice. I believe now would be a good time to rethink your ammo assembly process. Take it for what it's worth, don't take it as an attack, file it under great advice. LGB

58.0 of H4350 is max for the 180 grain .30-06 in the Speer #14 manual...don't do it. Just my .02, LeonCarr

Quote: I know the 30-06 is a relatively low pressure cartridge to begin with. That's kind of a stretch. SAAMI MAP for the 30-06 is 60,000 PSI. That's right up there with the best of them. And plenty enough to blow you clean up if a case lets go with your over-loaded 180 grain bullets.. You need to pull them! rc