Seating depths, finding the right depth/OAL

[novicemarksman]

Hi all, I've been shooting a 30-06 Savage 110 hvy bbl, bedded & floated, in a Choate stock. I'm using Nosler 168 HPBT and most groups at 100yds stay under 3/4" with some down to 3/8". Varying seating depth doen't seem to make much difference (0.010" into the lands to 0.020" off), and the "sweet spot" varies over about 2gns of powder. Any suggestions to improve the accuracy & consistency anybody?
Regards, novicemarksman.

 

[Travelor]

I would change brands of bullets. Try Sierra 168 gr MatchKings and also some Berger 168's. I would stay away from the VLD bullets as they are REAL finicky to get to shoot well, in my opinion.

You did not say what powder or primers you were using. I would try some VARGET and some H4895 and for primers, try some Russian primers.

At some point you might consider sending it to Mr Larry Racine for his magic. http://www.lprgunsmith.com/index.htm
His work is superb and he is a great guy to deal with and fast.

I have three Savages he has worked on and they are MUCH MUCH BETTER than originally from the factory.

Let us know how your rifle progresses.

George

 

[Thorbird]

+1 on Larry Racine if you decide to have any work done.

 

[Kenny474]

I'm sorry if this offends anyone, but forget Varget in the 30-06, and while H4895 is decent as well, there is better to be had. H4350, hands down the best 30-06 powder ever devised. It will give better load density than either Varget or H4895. If you step up to 180gr bullets at some point, RE19 works good as well, though it has favored hotter loads in my experience.

I have had some decent results in the past from the 168 Nosler HPBT's, though I think the SMK's or Berger's may be a little better. But as others have said, stick with the non-VLD's for now, they are easier to get to work. The A-Max's work well also.

Are you using a rest or bipod? You may need to work on your hold and technique a bit, as that can have a major effect on accuracy.

Have a look at Riflemansjournal.com. It's German Salazar's site and he is VERY knowledgeable on the 30-06. You will likely find some helpful info there on various topics.

What are you using for dies, and do you full length or neck size? Getting a tighter fit in the chamber will usually help a bit as well, though you don't want to be forcing the bolt closed either.

 

[novicemarksman]

I am using AR2209 (ADI) powder. It approximates IMR 4350, but is denser. Using Federal GM210M primers. I've tried the Sierra 168MK's, but found the Noslers group better, & a lot (about 1/2 price) cheaper. I shoot off a bipod, as the Choate stock doesn't suit off the bags. I also have a laminated Savage target stock, which I have shot off the bags. Groups are about the same with either stock, off bags or off bipod. However, thanks for the interest and comments & ideas.
Regards, NM