30-06: 150g or 170g

[rtyler8140]

So this year will be my first using cast for deer. I have two loads that I have a high degree of confidence in as far as accuracy goes. One is the Lee 309-150-F, 50/50 COWW and SOWW air cooled, powder coat, gas checked. I'm guessing is going about 1900-2000fps. The other is the Lee 309-170-F, 50/50 COWW and SOWW air cooled, powder coat, gas checked. I'm guessing it is in the 1600-1700fps range.

Any shot I take on a deer will be less than 100 yards. I hunt for meat, so trying to strike the balance of a quick, ethical kill whilst minimizing meat loss. If you were in my shoes, which load would you choose, 150g or 170g?

[brewer12345]

There probably isn't much difference, to tell you the truth. If there isn't an accuracy difference between the two loads, I would probably pick the one with the bigger meplat. If no difference there, I would pick the heavier slug.

[Huntsman]

Agree ^
If it makes any difference, I am casting and hunting with the Lee 200gr RNGC for all my game in my .308 Win (Win 88).
*avatar pic

[Three44s]

There probably isn't much difference, to tell you the truth. If there isn't an accuracy difference between the two loads, I would probably pick the one with the bigger meplat. If no difference there, I would pick the heavier slug.

+10!

Three44s

[444ttd]

i use 165gr ranch dog that goes 1930fps in my 30-40 krag. i and my son have killed deer with it out to 173 yards(my son/laser range finder). i usually kill them at 50 yards and under.

i'd go with bigger metplat everyday and twicet on sunday.

[Winger Ed.]

Either one will work, but I lean towards a hard alloy, and heavier weight boolit for hunting.

And I'll pump 'em on up until the accuracy falls off.

[rtyler8140]

Bullet profile is exactly the same for both as far as meplat. I wasn't sure if speed to alloy to weight would make a big difference. Sounds like the 170g is the way to go. Thank you for the input.

[jaysouth]

Let your rifle tell you which one to use. That is the most accurate.