looking for advise on .325 wsm load

[ss0073]

I picked up a new .325 wsm Winchester 1885 high wall for pennies on a dollar and want to give it a try. 1-10" twist, 28" octogon barrel. I've always shot Nosler ballistic tips in all my rifles/reloads, but am having a dificult time finding them for 8mm. Was considering the Accubonds in either 180 or 200 gr. I'm wondering if either of the 2 have been preferred of the either? Using for deer, bear, elk. I know 180 gr is more than enough for deer since I have been using 100gr ballistic tips in a 257 roberts for the last 8 years with excellent results. My concern with the 180 gr bullet is not having the mass to expand properly and creating a big wound channel. I'd rather not have the bullet exit and do its job in the boiler room. Any one have any experience with the 180 gr with the "smaller" big game? Results?

Also, powder choices? Ive read alot of guys using IMR4831, some using H4831, some using IMR4350....all with 180 and 200 gr bullets. Just personal preferences?

Any input would be appreciated.

 

[NCsmitty]

Welcome to THR, ss0073.

Nosler ballistic tips are good bullets, especially in standard 8mm Mauser and such. I would be concerned using them in the high intensity 325 WSM because a close range shot can fragment the BT, when bone is hit.
The Accubond is a step up to a reliable bullet that won't fragment, and is much cheaper than the Partition, and has a better BC. Nosler only shows a 200gr Accubond in 8mm at their site. The only standard 8mm bullet that I know of that has the jacket designed for the higher velocities is the Remington 185gr Core-Lokt, which Remington created for their 8mm Rem Mag.
Several powders work well in the short mag cases, and some, like Alliant's Rel-17, is designed for that short, fat case.
Look at www.alliantpowder.com or www.hodgdon.com for their load data.


NCsmitty

 

[Seedtick]

ss0073, Welcome to THR. Just make yourself at home.

You might find what you need at Shooter's Pro Shop. They show to have a few 8mm's in stock including Ballistic Tips. I've ordered from them a few times and haven't had any problems.

Nosler 8mm (.323)

Seedtick

 

[ss0073]

Thanks for the welcome guys. I've been here to read before, but never registered/posted but now I need informative help. I appreciate the input and will look at those sites and see what I can find. Do either of you (above posters) recommend a particular grain bullet from personal experiences?