Guess I don't fully understand the idea of "cost". You work up an accurate load with an accurate, less expensive bullet and chrono it. Then, begin loading the NF's starting about 7-8% below your "accurate" load. Keep increasing the powder charge until you reach the velocity you had with the less expensive bullets. In my .338 WM., I used the Hornady, 225 gr. bullet to start and had no problem going from there to the NF.
I also don't get the "inefficient" comment. "Inefficient" regarding what? If , it's manufacturing, Mike was stuck due to his cost of materials which were sky rocketing. "Inefficient" in game? Definitely not from what I've seen. In fact, as I recall, I'm using about 2-3 gr. of powder less than I did when I was working up my .338 load. Besides, what's the cost of 2-3 grs. less of powder? Zilch!! Nada!!! Nothing!!
I'm gonna keep using 'em anyway, thank you very much.
Bear in Fairbanks

Last edited by Bear_in_Fairbanks; 01/01/11.
"Unless you're the lead dog, the scenery never changes."
Amazingly, I've lived long enough to see a President who is worse than Carter.
And finally,
Gun control means using two hands.