Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Savage Collectors 303 Savage load data (again)

Hi guys,

I purchased some 180 grs Hornady RN bullets, I want to see if the heavier bullets will shoot a bit closer to the current sight setting, so I won't have to file the peep sight, or buy a replacement front sight.

I found a load of 30.5 grs IMR 4320, that would yield close to 2100 fps.

Does anybody have any experience with this load/bullet weight/powder? I picked this, because I just happen to have that powder in the gun cabinet.

I'm open to other load suggestions for this bullet weight though.

Thanks!

I like Imr 3031 28 grains for 170-180s in my 303s!

I've loaded 180 grain Sierra round nose with 31.5 grains of IMR 4320, Norma case and a Remington 9 1/2 primmer. Very accurate at 1910 fps in my 26" barreled "B". I was concerned that the round nose would not perform on game at this relatively low velocity. I like 170 grain Sierra flat points loaded with 4320 better. I also load 190 cast with 4320 as well.

Thanks, I will play around with that a bit. My barrel is only 22" so I may lose some velocity still.

I with Saddlering. Have had good luck with 170s and IMR3031.

Heavier bullets will typically shoot lower, but I presume you're already shooting low if you're talking about filing your sight down. So maybe a faster, lightweight bullet?

150's work just fine. This guy dropped in his tracks from a 150gr Hornady RN bullet out of a late 1899A SR with 22" barrel.

Filing down the stem of the peep sight, allowing it to sink into the sight deeper/lower, so the gun will shoot lower. Or try that heavier load, to see it it shoots lower. Or buy a different front sight, that is higher.

Ah, I thought you meant filing down the front sight.

Yep, try the 180's.