Well I picked up a 1942 Model 91/30 for a hundred dollars at the PX.
I lucked out because the bore looks good and most of the rifle matches except the bolt head and barrel bands.
I took her out yesterday and I was able to shoot just under 2 1/2 inches at 50m with Wolf Gold. Not exactly world class, but I'm pretty happy.
I slugged the bore today and it came out just a hair over .312 measured with a set of dial calipers.
Now here's where I need help;
1. What dies do you guys recomend? It seems that most dies size to .308 neck diameter. Won't that ruin a .312 or .313 cast bullet? I was looking at Lee dies because they're affordable and available.
2. I'm thinking of buying the Lee C312-185-1R and hoping it will cast large enough so that I can size to .313. Any suggestions? I am casting straight wheel weights. What top punch would I use?
3. Do I want to size to .313? Sould I try .314?
4. I plan to lube with 50/50 alox/beeswax in a RCBS lube-a-matic 2. That should work, right?
5. I'd like to use Red Dot powder since my max range would be 100m. I'm just looking for something fun (not punnishing) and ecconomical to shoot.
I know I'm asking a lot, but I haven't cast for a rifle yet, only for the .45 ACP in a 1911. Since the 7.62x54R seems to run from .308 to .314 I'm not really sure what is a good choice for my rifle. Thanks a lot, I appreciate it.
John