Reloading for Remington 7400 in .30-06

[Skinnedknuckles]

I've searched the forum and found some very useful information on the subject but the posts were old enough I didn't think I should post questions to them.

My basic question is powder choice. I use BL-C(2) for .30-06 in my bolt gun and am in the process of transitioning to CFE-223. I'm loading mid-range since that seems to be the sweet spot for my bolt gun. I tried the BL-C(2) in the 7400 (relatively recent acquisition) and was generally happy with the results. But in reading some of the older posts, I suspect BL-C(2) is too slow for gas operated rifles (generating too much gas), and CFE-223 is about the same speed. The 7400 does eject the brass with gusto, and after reading the older posts I'm worried I may be damaging the 7400.

Any help or advice would be appreciated.

 

[Duster340]

I feed mine 165 gr SPBT over a moderate 45gr load of old good old IMR 4895. Mild recoiling, reliable cycling, accurate deer load. Easy on the action.

 

[troy fairweather]

I like 47.0 of 4064 and 150 hdy interlock last 742 I had was well under moa with that load.

 

[Random 8]

As above, I would look into the 4895s, 4064s, R15, Varget and VN140. Throwing out a lot of options in deference to current supply issues. These are widely used in the M1 Garand. I haven't loaded for your Remington model, but I have put a lot of rounds through an M1 with 46-47 gr IMR4064 pushing 150-168 grain bullets.

I will also add a cautionary note on BL-C2. It IS listed in Hornady's Garand section. Using their load data, I experienced a very disconcerting condition that damaged my rifle (operating rod). I was using 46 gr BL-C2 with a 168 grain bullet and military brass. In extreme cold, zero and below, I experienced a hangfire which was also likely a "flashover detonation." My op-rod was irreparably bent. I was able to replicate the condition in a junker bolt action held in a vice and remotely triggered. No idea if my peak pressure spiked also, but was enough to make me discontinue any use of this powder in 30-06 as I often shoot in severe cold.

 

[Lennyjoe]

IMR 4350 for me out of my -06 with Sierra Gameking 165 BTSP for deer and Nosler Partition 180’s for Elk.