6.5x47 load data help

[dmm08300]

Hello, I'm looking for some data for a hunting load. I was thinking maybe 123 sst's. The gun shoots 120 berger target vlds well, 2" groups measured outside to outside @ 300yds off bipods. The gun is a model 11 with a CBI 8 twist barrel.I'm open to any hunting loads and am considering using the rifle on a mule deer hunt this fall.

Thanks in advance for the help,
David

[darkker]

Well.... Start with your loading from the Berger's and test. None of us can tell you what your gun may like; shooting and testing is half the point.

If you want bullet feedback, I'm not an SST fan, lots of jelly....
I shoot my muley's out here with 140gr custom comps.

[dmm08300]

Thanks for the input. I guess my dilemma is trying to determine a safe starting load for bullets that are not listed in published data, which is everything other than berger or smk's.

[acemisser]

you guys using a varmint barrel on your rifles..thinking of making one of these myself

[dmm08300]

Mine is a varmint taper, I've been playing with the idea of building an ultralight mtn rifle version as well

[FW Conch]

"dmm", when I find myself in your position, I use a bullet of the same weight as listed, use a starting load, .020" off the lands, and work up from there. If it is a solid copper bullet, I go .050" off the lands. Never had a problem.

[dmm08300]

Thanks FW, that's what I was after. I wish Berger would make a 120 gr Hunting bullet. I just put my gun back in the stock Saturday, 3 shots @ 100 yds .270" outside 3 shot group. It's between the 6.5x47 or my vanguard 240 wby mag for a mule deer hunt this fall. The 240 shoots really well too with 95 sst's best groups 1.997" 3 shots @ 300 yds and 87 gr vld's 2.215" 3 shots @ 300 yds. i'm torn between the two.