336 and 311291 Lead bullet

[flounderjig]

I've reloaded for awhile, 97 to be exact. I have a nice 336 built in 1963 I want to use on deer this fall. I shoot at a 100 yd. range but where I hunt there is potiental to shoot abit farther, 125 to 200 yds. Right now I am loading 23.5 grs. of 3031 under this gas checked bullet. Lyman book says that Im going about 1600 fps. I set this rifle up so Im hitting inside a five inch bull(clay target) and knocking the center out with regularity. Where do you all think I should hold say out at 200 yds. Also if I take a further shot, with these old eyes I probably will use some cross sticks. I come to you all because you all are knowledgable and you so far havent steered me wrong yet. I will shoot it at the lease at the 150 and 200 yd mark anyhow prior to season. I need a quessament, please.

[Glenn]

flounderjig,
The Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook says the #311291 starting at 1600 from the muzzle and sighted in at 100 yards will be 6.32" low at 150 yards and 18.14" low at 200 yards. This is with iron sights. A scope will show slightly less drop because of the height of the scope above the bore. The velocity at 100, 150 and 200 yards is 1361, 1260 and 1174 f.p.s. You'll get plenty of penetration, but unless the bullet is dead soft, not much in the way of expansion.

For a load like this I cast a pure lead soft nose. It's a pain, but melt a 32 or 36 caliber pure lead round ball in your dipper, pour it in the hot mould and follow up immediately with your harder lead like wheel weights. You'll see a seam at the edge of the soft nose, but it doesn't seem to hurt accuracy.

Glenn

edit for spelling

[flounderjig]

Thank you for your expertise, Glen. It is greatly appreciated. This is the bullet I will shoot from this gun. Again thank you. Strictly iron sights.

[Charles]

There is also much to be said for hollow point versions of 311291. Original Lyman HP molds are hard to find and quite pricey, but there are folks who will convert a solid point mold into HP for a reasonable sum of money.

[flounderjig]

Thank you Charles and Glenn again. I have an original hollow point mold inherited from my father and that is the bullet I will be using. Thanks again. Let you all know how it works. We are everywhere, liberityminded men, 3%.

[KCSO]

Actually either 3031 or WW748 will push that bullet faster if you so desire. I am running mine at 1950 with goo results, under 3" at 100 yards. This load kill deer just like a factory bullet to as far as you can shoot it.