Narrowing Down Load Data: 168gr TTSX in stock Tikka 30-06 (1:11)

[philcox]

After a lack of research on the Hammer Hunter 166 (needs 1:10, not 1:11). Developing a load for stock Tikka 30-06 T3X Lite. I am falling back to a handload based on the projectile that gun already likes in the VOR-TX Factory load. So using the 168gr TTSX, I have the following to work with:

• Brass: Fired Hornady, Barnes, or FC
• Primer: CCI 200
• Powders: Varget, RL16, H4350, RL19, IMR 4831, Ramshot Hunter, Superformance, and RL22

Any suggestions as to top 2-3 load combinations are appreciated. I have seen load data for almost all of those powders, but would like to learn from some folks who have already narrowed some things down.

Appreciate it if anyone has a load worked up for that gun and that projectile.

Thanks,

Phil

 

[260madman]

Hunter or H4350. I use Hunter in mine for that weight of bullet.

 

[DJL2]

Just looking at your powders and brass, I’d say Hornady brass. My Hornady manual says 2950 for RL-17, 2800 for Superformance. Varget is listed for 168, but isn’t a top performer. Hunter is listed for the 180s, but not the 168s.

H4350, 4831 (and their Enduron colleagues - 4451 and 4955) are what I use for 195-215 grain .30-06 loads… they’re not gonna be ideal for the lighter bullet.

That 1:11 should stabilize the heavy ELD-X/M with no real issue and the TMK as well. I know the book says 1:10, but that 1:11 just seems to work…

 

[DJL2]

FWIW, Berger calculates these combinations as between marginally and optimally stable depending on altitude and MV for 1:11 twist rifles. I can’t speak to the Hammer Head, but if I already had them in hand I would darn sure send a few and see what they looked like on target.