Load Development in 99E .308

Guys, I have a Model 99E in .308 (20 in brl) that I am developing handloads for. I have several different bullet makes in 150 and 165 grain. I plan on keeping things very mild in the velocity and pressure categories but I am curious to know what some pressure signs with a lever gun might be. Besides the obvious signs on the cases, does the lever seem loose? Issues with extraction? Any suggested recipes? I am not expecting a tack driver but expect better than minute of deer. For the record, it shoots factory Winchester 150 grain Power Cores into a 1 1/2" group at 100 yards.