18" 30-06

[RuttyRizzler]

I have a short barrel 18" 30-06. With factory copper 165g TTSX Outfitter ammo I'm getting 2660fps. This would be a viable big game rifle to about 400 yards with this factory offering.
In your opinion what would be the best bullet powder combo for such a short barrel 30-06? pushing distances to possibly 500/600yards.

 

[338 dude]

I have a short barrel 18" 30-06. With factory copper 165g TTSX Outfitter ammo I'm getting 2660fps. This would be a viable big game rifle to about 400 yards with this factory offering.
In your opinion what would be the best bullet powder combo for such a short barrel 30-06? pushing distances to possibly 500/600yards.

I think you'll be fine but only the target will tell you for sure. I think H 4350 would work well in an 18 inch barrel. I had mine cut down from a 24 to a 20 when I got a suppressor and this is my current load give it a shot.

 

[FireFlyFishing]

155 or 168 TMK.

 

[RuttyRizzler]

I've never shot either partitions or sierra. I will give it a go and see what turns up.

 

[M118LR]

Depends on barrel twist and just how BIG the game is. 1:10 stabilizes 220 grain projectiles well. High BC projectiles can make up for some of the velocity lost from the 18 inch barrel. IMR and 30-06 have had positive results for many years.

 

[RuttyRizzler]

Depends on barrel twist and just how BIG the game is. 1:10 stabilizes 220 grain projectiles well. High BC projectiles can make up for some of the velocity lost from the 18 inch barrel. IMR and 30-06 have had positive results for many years.

I'd like to take this elk hunting one day.

 

[M118LR]

A .308 Projectile needs to impact at 2600 fps or more to induce hydrostatic Shock. A Nosler Partition needs to impact at 1800 fps or more for max performance. 30 caliber projectiles in the 180 grain weight have had proven performance afield on Elk for many years. While Ball Powders may give higher velocities from shorter barrels, (they also flow well from progressive loaders) Hummer at Aberdeen proved that they increase throat erosion by over 25% when compared to extruded powders. On a hunting rifle that may or may not ever see 3K rounds, it may be worth looking at some of the ball powders. Every rifle will pick it's own preferred load, that's why experimentation and range time are required for optimal results. I can't give you a sure thing, but starting with accuracy loads listed in your reloading manuals is usually a good place to start. JMHO. Happy Hunting.

 

[cohunt]

150 ttsx @2873 with imr 4895
166hh @2880 with rl 16
178 eldx @2840 with rl22
178 ahh @ 2955 with rl 16

Cut to 20" 30-06 rem 700ss mountain rifle with pencil barrel

 

[M118LR]

I have a short barrel 18" 30-06. With factory copper 165g TTSX Outfitter ammo I'm getting 2660fps. This would be a viable big game rifle to about 400 yards with this factory offering.
In your opinion what would be the best bullet powder combo for such a short barrel 30-06? pushing distances to possibly 500/600yards.

Now normally a 30-06 18 inch carbine is carried for Point Blank Range (300 yards or less) snap shooting in areas that have a restricted swing arc while stalking afoot. Many are equipped with only irons in order to keep carry weight down. Depending on the expected size & weight of the game hunted heavy for caliber projectiles are usually used to ensure deep penetration. For 500-600 yard shots from the prone position a 22 inch barrel that matches the burn rate of most powders that correspond to the velocities required of a 30 caliber projectiles would be recommended, as snap shooting at 500-600 yards is Olympic quality shooting or better. (Not really practical for the average JOE) I understand that everything is a nail if you only have a hammer, but using the proper tool for the job makes for better craftsmanship. If you intend to shoot at 500-600 yards purchase a tool that fits that purpose. Otherwise, enjoy your carbine at point blank ranges and stalk until within 200 for offhand or 300 yards if you can get support or a prone shot. A 8 pound hunting carbine that you can carry afield for perhaps a month to take one shot and fill your tag, vice carrying a 12+ pound scoped rifle afield with a 26 inch barrel in thick brush catching on everything becomes more enjoyable as time and tide come to pass. JMHO.