7-30 Waters and 160gr+ bullets

[ghostrider272]

Anyone have good results with using 160 gr and larger bullets in the 7-30 Waters?  If so, what powder were you using and how were the results taking game?

Thanks in advance!

[Graybeard]

To what end?

I doubt you'll find a 160 that will expand even at the muzzle at the velocity you can get from this small round. I don't even like 140s for it.

[GameHauler]

I agree with Graybeard.
120gr or 130gr would be a better choice

[skb2706]

Its unanimous...no matter what site you ask on you keep getting the same answer. You can find loading data for bigger bullets but the Waters is basically best at 120-130 gr. bullets for any game that its suited for.

[ghostrider272]

Thanks for your input guys.  I spoke with Nosler and Sierra today and just thought I would throw some stuff out there as food for thought.

Nosler said that the minimum velocities for full expansion for the Partition and Accubonds are 1800 and 1700 fps, respectively. 

Sierra provided reloading data for their 168 gr Matchkings for a 14 inch barrel.  Their velocities for IMR 4320 and 4895 to be around 2000 fps with max loads. 

Provides some food for thought...  Maybe not the most realistic for hunting situations, but mathematically, it shows a short range potential.

Thanks again guys!

[charles p]

I've taken several deer with my 7-30 Contender.  My longest shot was a drop dead right now shot at 156 yards.  I was using a Sierra 130 SSP bullet.  I have also used 120 Nosler Balistic Tips but my better results came from the Sierra SSP.  Probably have taken 3-4 deer with each.  Ranges have been from 30 yards out to the 156 yard shot.  Most have been chest shots.  Took one buck straight on and he sat down on his haunches and fell over.  Hit a doe in the head by accident once - luck.  Can only think of a few that ran a ways.  Never lost but one.

Can't imagine the need for a 160+ in any 7mm under the Rem Mag.

[GameHauler]

Ghostrider, I am not sure what you are trying to do but
The 7-30 is an awesome round if used where it was designed for.
If you feel the need for a larger bullet I think at this point in time
you need to look at getting another barrel
Let us know what your objective is and maybe we can help.
7-30 barrels are available but are not a dime a dozen.
so you have a bit of trading stock depending on configuration
of your barrel and what you may want.
I have 2 and if there were 10 in my safe, not sure I would sell one

[ghostrider272]

Thanks Gamehauler.  I do have a rifle barrel chambered for 7-30.  I have bullets in 100, 120 and 140 gr that I will be loading for.  I no longer have a 7 mag so I have quite a few 160 and 175 gr Partitions and Accubonds along with 168 gr Matchkings lying around . 

The reason for the question about larger bullets is that if the 6.5 Swede and 30-30 can take game with slow heavy bullets, why not the Waters.  I realize they may not be the optimum choice, but with their high BCs and SDs, they should be effective as long as you are smart with the ranges at which one uses them.  I believe there is a reason that manufacturers suggest a minimum velocity for full expansion.

Just thinking outside the box as I look to use up my supplies on hand in other ways.  Thanks again for your input.