boomtube, I've loaded for at least half a dozen bolt-action .30-06s and have come to the conclusion that if they won't shoot a load of 57 gr. IMR 4350 and a 165 gr. jacketed bullet (pick your poison), then there's something wrong with the rifle (or the shooter in the case of my BIL...he called me complaining something was wrong with his rifle or scope, it wouldn't shoot less than three inches. I turned out three MOA or better groups in a row and asked him to shoot - he shot a 3" group...) So I would conclude that it's helpful to know there are dozens of different combinations that shoot well, but ultimately, shortcuts can be futile, but the 57 gr. IMR 4350 load is my benchmark and has been for many years.
