Q: I recently purchased a Sako Model 85 Bavarian in .30-06 with wood stock, blued barrel and iron sights. I have attached a Swarovski Z5 3.5-18×44 scope in Sako Q/R mounts. I assume that you have either used or tested this firearm in .30-06 and can recommend the best loads and projectiles. I intend using this outfit on game ranging from pigs to large deer and even brumbies and camels. So far
I have used Federal 150 and 180gn soft-point factory loads but I intend to start reloading once-fired Federal brass. Can you suggest a suitable load for both bullet weights? I have a large amount of AR2206H powder which I use reloading the .223 and .243 via ADI’s reloading chart. I’d like to keep using this powder if it is suitable for the .30-06.
– David Kerr
A: I’ve tested a number of different Sako 85s over the years, but not the Bavarian model. The best ADI powder in the .30-06 is AR2209. My pet loads are: Hornady 150gn Interlock 60gn AR2209 2900fps; Hornady 165gn 58gn of AR2209 2855FPS; and Woodleigh 180gn and 58gn of AR2209 2700fps. You can use AR2206H if you wish: Hornady 150gn 49gn AR2206H 2850fps; Hornady 165gn 47gn AR2206H 2780fps; and Woodleigh 180gn 45gn AR2206H 2600fps. Your outfit should be fine, but why put a varmint scope on a big-game rifle? In my opinion, a 3.5-10×44 would have been better suited.
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