Hello all, I have a Savage 99 in 308 caliber I wanted to hand load for. I have been reloading for 2 yrs and need some help. I do not know the twist rate yet of the barrel, but I think it should stabalize 150-180 grain bullets. It would be used as a saddle gun or a backup on deer or elk hunts, maybe black bear some day. When working up a load should I be more cautious (because it's older/lever action) than I would on a bolt action? Do I work up a load in a ladder test and adjust COAL the same as my 243 bolt action? Since it has a rotating magazine I won't be limited to round nose bulllets. Also what powders/bullets would you suggest? I was thinking a 180 accubond or 165 ish bullet as a 1 load fits all. All shots will be sub 300 unless I am out plinking. I have read a lot of info on this forum about the 308, I just need to know if any of that changes for old lever guns.