30-7x57 A.I.

[CanusLatransSnpr]

As the title reads I'm looking in to doing a 30-7x57 A.I. I think this would be a great varmint cartridge put together on a quality 15tw. barrel? I'm curious is anyone has tried this combination in any way? I think a fellow would realize great barrel life, ability to use a short action with std. bolt face, and good Norma brass! Tell what your thoughts are if you would please?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[ShootDots]

The 7 X 57 A.I. is VERY close in powder capacity to a .284 Win.. There is an "older" chambering, not used very much today, is a .30 x 284.. It actually carries the same load data as a standard 30-06! If you wanted to "acklyize" it you could do that too.. However, since the 284 case is NEARLY "improved" from the get go, it would not be necessary.. If it were me, going to a 30 x 284 is easier.

 

[benchracer]

With a case length of 2.244", the 7x57 is not a short action cartridge. Are you counting on short, stubby, light for caliber bullets to allow it to fit in a short action?

If you AI the 7x57 case, you will have something just shy of the capacity of the .284 case. Why not go 30-284? It could definitely function in a short action. You would have Lapua brass to work with. I dare say that you would likely have an easier time coming up with dies for it.

I can't really say that I see the point in going to .30 caliber for a varmint cartridge. I see a lot of negatives and can't really think of a positive (other than maybe barrel life).

A 7x57AI or a straight .284 Win would walk all over a comparable .30 caliber using varmint weight bullets. Barrel life with either one would still be pretty reasonable if you manage your barrel heat at all.

 

[CanusLatransSnpr]

Dies wouldn't be tough, just use 7x57 A.I. or 6mm Rem A.I. bushing dies and purchase the appropriate bushing! The nice thing about pushing 30 cal bullets at high velocity is you get some awesome aerial acrobatics from woodchucks when you hit them ! I'm not opposed to a 30-284 win mag either! Honestly never even thought about that avenue?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[CanusLatransSnpr]

After looking at the available bullets in a 7mm that wouldn't be a bad option either! Less brass work, which is always nice, and good velocity too!

Mike