So, this bidness of N-120 in a 30 BR

[Pete Wass]

Ok, so I guessed at a safe starting load of N-120 in my 30 BR this morning. I began @ 31gn and loaded a series of 3 rounds going up .02gn. I found that while the 31gn is safe to shoot, it may be too hot in hot weather. @ 31.8 I found a nice tiny round hole in the zeros. I will next try 30gn. I believe 30 would stand the "Kitchen Heat"

Pete

 

[Shooter13]

I just did N130 at 35.7 grains and before I could do any testing the trigger "failed", not really but turned the hanger around and it works great now, another trip to the range!

 

[M-61]

Ok, so I guessed at a safe starting load

You guessed?

 

[Jager]

You don't mention what bullet or brass you're using. But if you chrono your 31.x ladder you'll likely find it to be quite mild, well below the 2950+ velocities that most .30 BR shooters target. But the target downrange is the final arbiter. If your 31.8/N120 shoots in the zeros - consistently - then that's all that matters.

Hot weather is very unlikely to cause pressure issues at those charge levels.

 

[Pete Wass]

I used Lapua 6 BR brass necked up to 30 cal and a 108 gn flat based bullet.

Yes, it's the target that tells the story and one of the things I rely on. I pay attention to bolt lift an primer condition. The primers are flat but the bolt lift is just beginning to tighten up. I don't want to upset the rifle with a heavy bolt lift. I really don't care much about the FPS. It isn't paramount in my process.