Duplicating FGMM .30-06?

[benzy2]

I'm looking to duplicate Federal GMM for the .30-06. I'm just starting to develop loads for my new .30-06 and figure the FGMM would be as good of a load to start as any. I know they are using a 168gr SMK pushed around 2700fps. I was wondering what powder or similar powder they were running to get a good case fill and to get these velocities? I assume they are using federal gold metal primers? Since I don't have any in front of me I was wondering if anyone knew how deep they seat the bullet? I know I need to find what my rifle likes best and I normally test from .005" into the lands to .025" off of them but was just wondering what their depth was for a starting load. I really need to get quick load. I have a few manuals with load data but none of them describe how full the case is which I have found to be very important.

 

[mickeydim468]

The reloading manual from Richard Lee called Modern Reloading does have the usable case volume information listed in it as he recommends using a scoop measured in cc's to load with for the Lee Classic Loader. I can tell you that the 30.06 usable volume is 4.38 cc according to this book and the fullest load listed for the 168 Gr bullet is H4350 at 55 Gr as a starting load and a maximum load of 59 Gr. The starting velocity listed is 2695 with the max at 2897 He shows a Min OAL of 3.230 for this load as well.

I hope that helps.

Mikey!

Disclaimer: Use this info at your own risk. Neither I or THR are responsible for your use of this info. By attempting to use this load you accept full responsibility for all results whether positive or negative.

 

[NCsmitty]

Just curious, is this being used in a Garand?

NCsmitty

 

[Jim Watson]

What I was thinking. If for a Garand, load 4895 or something close on the burn rate charts, maybe 4064 or Bl C2 and don't worry about case fill. And don't assume Federal does.

If for a bolt action Mikey got it, 4350 is good.

 

[benzy2]

It is for a Garand but I am using an adjustable gas plug to avoid pressure curve issues. I don't have anything against 4895, I just wasn't sure if it filled the case very full. Since FGMM seems to shoot well in most rifles I figured they used a powder that filled the case fairly full and was looking for options. I've noticed in the past that powder that fills 90% or so of the case volume or more seems to be more accurate than those that only fill 70% or so. The manuals I have all list weight but don't touch on volume unless the load is a compressed load.

 

[30Cal]

The published 168gr loads using 4064 or 4895 will give you what you want. It's a good bullet and not the least bit fussy. It tends to shoot well regardless of what you put it on top of.

There really aren't any secrets when it comes to match loads for the M1. That ground has been covered thousands of times over the past 40+ years. You won't need any gas system mods.

I shoot 45.5grs IMR4895 (on the slightly mild side) in an LC case, 168gr Sierra or Nosler, WLR primer, 3.325".


I think the NJhighpower website has some match m1 loads in their reloads section.
http://www.njhighpower.com/

 

[NCsmitty]

Since FGMM seems to shoot well in most rifles I figured they used a powder that filled the case fairly full and was looking for options.

So you've never pulled a Federal load to check the powder charge for load density, correct?
Most ammo makers load proprietary powders that reloader's can only hope to replicate in some manner.
People a lot smarter than us spent their lives developing data that works, so reinventing the wheel may actually damage your rifle if you're not careful.

NCsmitty