2 years ago 2 years ago

.30-30 Winchester accuracy

by Nick Harvey 2 years ago2 years ago

Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect from my Marlin 336 in .30-30 Winchester topped with a Leupold 2-7x scope?

Could you recommend a handload with the Hornady 160gn FTX bullet?

Can you suggest a distance to sight-in at?

— Steve Neagle

A: Over the years I have tested a dozen or more Marlin 336 rifles in .30-30 and many of them grouped into 2 MOA at 100yd when fed ammo that agreed with them.

A charge of 30gn of AR2219 drives the 160gn FTX bullet at 2300fps from a 20” barrel.

That load was very accurate in all the rifles I tested it in and shot quite a number of 1½” groups at 100yd.

If you sight in the 160gn FTX to be 2.5” high at 100yd it will zero at 180, drop 2” at 200 and 8” at 250.

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Posted by Nick Harvey

The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.