loading for 7.62x54r using .308 data

[Silver Fox]

I've read that Ed Harris recommended using .308 data to load for the 7.62x54r if no data could be found for this cartridge. Can anyone confirm this? Looking at the data for each I see lower starting loads for the .308. Don't really want to set forth with this if its unsafe. Thanks!

[Larry Gibson]

If you have the data for the 7.62x54R to compare then it would be wise to go with that data.

Top end jacketed bullet .308W/7.62 NATO loads generate upwards of 60 - 62,000 psi (piezo-transducer). Those loads used in the even slightly larger 7.62x54R case can generate psi's considerably above what milsurp and commercial 7.62x54R ammunition generates. I know because I have measured them.

If you are talking cast bullets then most data listed for the .308W would be safe in the 7.62x54R.

Larry Gibson

[Silver Fox]

Thanks. I have some N-135 that I wanted to use with some 174 grain Hornady. The only data I could find that was close is for a 185 gr bullet. Wasn't sure if I should use this data on the theory of using "data for the next heaviest bullet" or go with the .308 data. Thanks again. Your answer is appreciated.

[GH1]

It may work but personally, I wouldn't do it. The proper data is available and if you can't find it for your exact powder/bullet combination, contact the powder manufacturer. I've done that more than once for various cartridges with good results.
GH1

[Nickle]

Look at Hodgdon's site, they have data. It's a little work to get there, but worth it. And, yes, they do list 7.62x54R.

http://data.hodgdon.com/cartridge_load.asp

Start low, work up. Use extra caution if using an M24 Finnish Mosin-Nagant with a SIG barrel. They tend to run on the smaller side. Even the ones with a lot of wear may still be tight. Still accurate too.

[Silver Fox]

Thanks to all. Found lots of good Lyman data for the Hornady .312 174 gr. Nothing for the N-135 but that's
ok. Wish I had an M24. I have two Finn captures but nothing with a Finnish barrel yet.

[Nickle]

I've got 3 MNs.

An M24 Finn, which has a Swiss, not Finnish barrel. SIG made, and IIRC, measures .309. Receiver is 1895 vintage, so it beats the 1898 law!

An M28 Finn.

A 91/30, 1942-1944 vintage, real nice shape.

[Silver Fox]

I've got 3 MNs.

An M24 Finn, which has a Swiss, not Finnish barrel. SIG made, and IIRC, measures .309. Receiver is 1895 vintage, so it beats the 1898 law!

An M28 Finn.

A 91/30, 1942-1944 vintage, real nice shape.

I started with a 1943 91/30. Nice bore but it shot horribly at first. Lots of shimming experiments and it finally shoots well. I recently picked up a 1933 Tula Finn capture with a hex receiver (very accurate) and a 1937 Tula Finn capture with a round receiver. The 1937 is very interesting as it's in a two piece Finn potbelly stock with sling swivels. Best part is I picked up the Finn captures for $100 each. I love these rifles. I want a 28/30 or M39 but they seem to be extremely scarce here in Canada.

[GH1]

The problem with the Hodgden data is it lists .308" diameter bullets, and most Mosin's use a .312. I don't know what kind of pressure differences there might be.
GH1

[1500FPS]

Not saying this is safe, the 7.62x54R has little more volume then that 308 case and also the bore volume is little larger. Those two things there lower pressure.

[Mike 56]

I have the Hornady 6th edition manual It has a lot of 54R loads with .308-.312 bullets. 308 NATO loads are lighter than 54R the 308 NATO starting loads look to light for 54r. Here is the data so you can check it out. I have been loading 165 gr .308 SP Hornady bullets in 54r as well as Hornady 123 .310 7.62x39 bullets with IMR 4064 powder both bullets shoot well from my M44, 91/30 and M39. Here is the data so you can compare for your self.





Here are .308 Winchester loads they do lit loads for 308 Winchester using N135 powder.