Recommendation’s for a .30 caliber boolit mold…

[creekwalker]

I have cast and loaded for a variety of pistol and revolver calibers over the years but never for a rifle. With this in mind as well as the recent acquisition of a Cramer lube a sizer with a 30 caliber sizing die (It’s identical to a Saeco) I’m willing to give it a try. So I’ll ask for mold recommendations and suggestions from you folks. The specific rifles will be a Marlin 336 in 30-30 and a surplus Spanish FR-8 in 308 (good steel action and barrel, very nice). I’d really like to start out with one mold for both but realize that’s somewhat impractical so I’ll remain open minded on this.

Creekwalker

[versifier]

For hunting, Lyman 311041. I don't know what the Spanish .308 will feed. If it doesn't like the Lyman, try Lee C309-170-FN or RCBS 180FN.

For target, Lyman 311091.

[Cherokee]

The RCBS 180 FN should work for both, works for my 30/30 and 30/06.

[mtgrs737]

I asked this same question a few weeks ago for my Marlin 336 with the micro groove barrel and got several replies that suggested the Lyman 311041 so I went with it. I have just now gotten around to some limited testing but it looks like a complete success! I use wheel weights plus about 20% linotype for the alloy and Lar's BAC lube and size at .310" in a Lyman 450, after loading I brush on a thin coat of Lee Liquid Alox on the esposed driving band and up to where the rifling starts to engave just forward of the driving band. I am using 10 grs. of Unique in WW cases and Magtech large rifle primers. I seat to the crimp groove and lightly crimp, the boolit gently engraves the rifling lead when chambered.

This load is a mild recoiling load and I will experiment with other powders. This boolit was designed for the 30-30 and It seems to be ideal for my rifle. Good luck!

[ktw]

I agree with Versifier, although I think he meant 311291 for target.

-ktw

[Bret4207]

Rcbs 180fn. Better quality than Lyman, same basic price.