Hornady's 150gr SST (Super Shock Tip) bullet is a popular choice for 30-06 Springfield shooters, prized for its accuracy and performance on game. This guide dives deep into load data for this specific bullet and caliber, offering insights to help you find the perfect combination for your rifle. Remember, always prioritize safety and consult your rifle's owner's manual before loading ammunition. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as a definitive recommendation.
Understanding the 30-06 Springfield and the 150gr SST Bullet
The 30-06 Springfield is a classic, powerful cartridge known for its versatility. It's effective on a wide range of game, from deer to elk, and its widespread use ensures readily available components. The 150gr SST bullet, with its polymer tip and bonded construction, delivers excellent expansion and penetration, making it suitable for various hunting situations. The bonded construction helps maintain bullet integrity even on tougher game, ensuring consistent performance.
Key Characteristics of the 150gr SST:
- Polymer Tip: Enhances ballistic coefficient and promotes reliable expansion.
- Bonded Construction: Maintains bullet integrity upon impact, maximizing penetration and energy transfer.
- High BC: Contributes to longer-range accuracy and flatter trajectory compared to non-bonded options.
Gathering Your Reloading Supplies
Before diving into load data, ensure you have all the necessary equipment and components. Neglecting any of these steps could lead to dangerous situations.
- Reloading Press: A sturdy press capable of handling the 30-06 Springfield.
- Dies: A complete set of 30-06 reloading dies (sizing, decapping, powder measure, bullet seating).
- Powder Measure: An accurate powder measure is crucial for consistency.
- Scale: A reliable scale is essential for precisely weighing powder charges.
- Cases: Clean, properly prepared 30-06 brass cases.
- Primer: Appropriate small rifle primers (check your manual for recommendations).
- Bullets: Hornady 150gr SST bullets.
- Case Lubricant: To ease the sizing process and prevent case damage.
- Safety Equipment: Safety glasses, hearing protection are absolutely critical.
Hornady 150gr SST 30-06 Load Data (Example)
Disclaimer: The following data is for informational purposes only and may not be suitable for all rifles. Always consult your rifle's owner's manual and other reliable load data sources before reloading ammunition. Start with the minimum charge and work up gradually, closely monitoring pressure signs.
| Powder | Powder Charge (grains) | Primer | Velocity (fps) (approximate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IMR 4350 | 48-52 | CCI 200 | 2600-2750 | Excellent accuracy, moderate recoil |
| IMR 4831 | 47-51 | CCI 200 | 2650-2800 | Good accuracy, moderate recoil |
| H4895 | 46-50 | CCI 200 | 2550-2700 | Lower recoil, good accuracy |
| RL-15 | 49-53 | CCI 200 | 2700-2850 | Excellent performance, potentially hotter loads |
Note: This table provides a range of powder charges. You must start at the minimum and incrementally increase the charge while carefully observing pressure signs. High pressure signs might include flattened primers, excessive case head expansion, or unusually stiff bolt lift.
Understanding the Table:
- Powder: The type of gunpowder used.
- Powder Charge: The weight of powder in grains.
- Primer: The type of small rifle primer.
- Velocity: The approximate muzzle velocity in feet per second (fps). This is highly dependent on the barrel length and other factors.
- Notes: Additional observations about the load.
Safety Precautions: Always Remember These!
- Start low and work up: Begin with the minimum powder charge listed and gradually increase it.
- Observe pressure signs: Pay close attention to your brass and the operation of your rifle for signs of excessive pressure.
- Consult multiple sources: Don't rely solely on one load data source. Cross-reference with other reputable manuals.
- Single-stage loading: Never load more than one round at a time, especially when working up a load.
- Proper cleaning and maintenance: Always keep your rifle and equipment clean.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Inaccurate Reloads: Inaccurate loads often result from inconsistent powder charges or bullet seating depth.
- High Pressure: High pressure indicated by flattened primers necessitates reducing the powder charge.
- Failure to Fire: This issue is generally caused by improper priming or a faulty firing pin.
Conclusion: Responsible Reloading is Key
Reloading your own 30-06 ammunition with the Hornady 150gr SST bullet can be rewarding. It allows for greater control over your ammunition's performance and cost savings. However, remember that safe and responsible reloading practices are paramount. Always prioritize safety and consult multiple reliable sources before loading ammunition. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be substituted for a thorough understanding of reloading principles and procedures. Never compromise safety.