Advice on switching to cast

[creekman]

I hope I'm not repeating a recent question. I tried to use the search function but didn't get anywhere. I shoot a 308 and I've been using a 125 gr jacketed bullet low end load for deer and a 100 gr fmj bullet reduced load for opportunity shots on small game like rabbits and such. I mostly still hunt in pretty thick creek bottoms and most of my shots are less than 50 yards. I hunt mostly in south Alabama where are deer are usually not over 150lbs so I don't need real heavy loads. Any suggestions as to which cast loads would be comparable would be appreciated. I'll be using wheel weights to make my cast bullets.

[leftiye]

You didn't state the velocity or your reduced loads. A 1600 fps load with maybe the 311291 (I think- check with Larry Gibson) or any other boolit weight/design should be adequate for most small game. I'd go somewhat lighter for my small game load myself, maybe a 311316. Fer deer I'd try to work up something with a flat point, maybe 180 grains, 50/50 SnPb, heat treated and nose annealed, and about 2000 Fps.

[atr]

I've been using Lyman mold #311291 (170gr nominal) with a cast weight of 182gr. and 34 Grains of Winchester 748. Velocity is around 2000 fps and this is a very accurate load in my Savage Model 99C out to 100+yards. Its been very good on the light deer around here.