I'm running Lapua brass. I already ran a pressure test and got 3050fps with a 143gr eldx. I'd be looking at around 2850-2950 for the load range. I had to use a 12" drop tube and they're still compressed. I don't really care about the extra velocity, it's the accuracy I want. I've got a 300win mag if I want more.Unless you're running Hornady brass stick with the RL-16. I tried 26 in Starline and Lapua and couldn't get enough powder in even compressed. I'm running 43.6 of RL-16 in Starline brass pushing the Berger 140 EH at 2850 into half MOA groups out to 600 yards.
That's difficult here in MI. Local range is 200m... After that I need to do some looking.Stretch it out and see if groups hold up, or which one is the best.
This thing has the absolute worst stock I could ever imagine. Complete junk! I bought it because it's cheap to shoot, and **** does it shoot. I've only got 100 rounds through it too.Crazy how a cheap Savage can nip at the heels of a good custom for a hunting rifle. I bought my older daughter a Savage Axis in 6.5CM w. A Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18×44, and with good handloads, it shoots 3/4" @ 200. Sure, my customs shoot half that size at 200....but at 10-20x the price!
Yes, even the best Savage stock, leaves a lot to be desired, it's still the biggest weakness. Now, because they price of the rifle, didn't break the bank, you can put the action in a chassis or a synthetic for better performance.This thing has the absolute worst stock I could ever imagine. Complete junk! I bought it because it's cheap to shoot, and *Rule 4 Violation* does it shoot. I've only got 100 rounds through it too.