7-08 Loads

[roc1]

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I am looking for a good 7-08 load for my Ruger Hawkeye. I am using 120gr Sierra now but would like to try others. I use H380 and IMR 4064 powders. What do you guys load? The Ruger is a 9 1/2 twist I believe. I use Varget and H4895 in other rifles and other powders as well.
Thanks
roc1

 

[contender]

I have found it's best to just consult reloading manuels and start trying a few noted "most accurate" recommendations in them. It's a good starting place to find the load YOUR gun prefers.

 

[mike7mm08]

I shoot nosler 140 grain ballistic tips. I load them over a hot load of H414. It is way over max. But the rifle likes them hot. Faster I push them the tighter it groups. The rifle is a remington model 7 with an 18 1/2 barrel. I am getting nearly 2900 fps. This is the only bullet the gun shoots well. I have shot groups that without measuring appear to be one hole and even when I am having a bad day the gun will not shoot larger than about a 1/2" groups. Gun is scary accurate. No pressure signs and I am on my sixth load with some brass. The bullet is amazing on deer. High lung shot and they only go a couple feet,straight down. So work up to book max and see what your gun likes. If decide to hot rod it just go slow.

 

[contender]

I agree that a heavier (140-160 grn) bullet seems to do better in my guns. Plus,, if it's deer hunting,, the ballistic tips are an excellent choice.

 

[Pal Val]

My 7mm-08 compact likes Hornady 139 grs pushed by 39.5 gr of IMR4064. It's a fairly mild load that gives me consistent groups +/- 1.5" at 100 yds. I figure a better shot than I could do better.

I'm using this load for the hunt next Fall.