My customary load for .30-06 for several years has been 55.5 grain of Re16 under my 180 Partitions. It seems to work well enough and yields about 2750 fps in my 24-inch Model 70.
This weekend I finally got around to trying some H4831 with the 180s, and I am encouraged. I loaded five each of 60.5, 61.0, 61.5, and 62.0 grains of H4831. The 60.5 grain load turned in a group that measured 0.82 inch, and the higher charges opened up somewhat. I forgot the chronograph so I cannot comment on velocity.
I intend to go back out with charges of 59.9, 60.1, 60.3, and 60.5 grains again and with the chrono to see if there's anything to be gained. Tight charge increments, I know...but I want data. I suspect there's a half-inch performer there waiting to be found.
I'm beginning to think this particular Model 70 will be the rifle I hang on to when the others begin to find new homes.
