My First Attempt Past 200yds

[Fishcop669]

Hi all,
This spring I sent my Tikka M695 .30-06 over to Corlanes (in Dawson Creek B.C.) to have a McMillan A3-5 Stock installed (along with pillar/epoxy bedding). I was going to get a new barrel, but ended up keeping my stock sporter and had a muzzle brake installed. I had started developing some handloads for it prior to the work being done, and this summer I finished that off with a good combo: 168gr Berger VLDs seated .005 off the lands with 61.6gr of Superformance powder and CCI No. 200 LRP in Hornady once-fired (neck sized) brass. I also got a good deal (at Corlanes) on a Zeiss Conquest 6.5-20x50 scope and a scope level - which I mounted on an EDG 20MOA rail with Burris Tac rings. This is what it all looks like:

My handloaded VLD's compared to my commercial Hornady 165gr SST's

I did some shooting at the range last week and was pretty happy with the results at 200yds:


So yesterday I found an isolated pipeline right-of-way with a straight stretch protected by big timber on both sides and tried one target (3 shots) each at 400, 600 and 800yds to validate my chronograph numbers and corresponding drop data. There were slight gusts (0-3mph) of wind from right to left, but I held no wind and hoped to hit paper. Here's my results:

400yds


600yds (this target should actually be flipped as I accidentally hung it upside down and shot it)


800yds


I'm sure that's not as good as some - but for my first attempt - I am pretty stoked! Seeing as this will be my main wolf gun this winter, I am looking forward to reaching out and touching some big dogs down the cutlines...

 

[.30 CAL]

That's some good shooting! What kind of speeds are you seeing with the superformance powder?

 

[shortpants]

That is outstanding! Not only good shooting but good load work up too! Keep up the good work.

 

[Fishcop669]

@ .30Cal - here's my last data set - my load of choice is not at the top end, but it was the most accurate. The groupings listed are at 100yds.

 

[Joel Russo]

Corlane's does excellent work, and it's evident in your finished project.
Good load work up, and shooting with the factory barrel on the 695. You should have plenty of opportunities for some long shots in your area.

 

[Clayne B]

Looks like you got it all tuned up and running good, Nice shooting man gun)

 

[RockZ]

nice job and good shooting. It looks like your #3 load has some potential to be a better load for long range since the es/sd is much lower . If you can tweak it you will get rid of the vertical at long range. Try a seating depth test at 100yds to try to tighten that #3 load.

 

[ICANHITHIMMAN]

I'm impressed, whats the twist rate on that rifle? Are you shooting them for fur?

 

[Fishcop669]

I'm impressed, whats the twist rate on that rifle? Are you shooting them for fur?

The twist rate is 1:11. I will attempt to salvage the fur, as I have a skinner who will process and ship them to the canadian fur auction (along with any coyotes I get in the farmland or elsewhere) for a portion of the proceeds. I am hoping it will bring a cost-covering profit, but regardless I plan to shoot as many as I am able.

 

[Fishcop669]

nice job and good shooting. It looks like your #3 load has some potential to be a better load for long range since the es/sd is much lower . If you can tweak it you will get rid of the vertical at long range. Try a seating depth test at 100yds to try to tighten that #3 load.

Good idea - in time I will be doing exactly that, however in the short term I needed to ensure a consistent load for fall rifle hunting (I am now consumed with archery for the next 6 weeks).