The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - cartridges above 30-06

JD0x0 · November 1, 2013, 05:22 PM

If you want flatter trajectory and 'slightly more power' go with a longer barrel. I am finding powerful load data for 7.62x54R out of a 29'' barrel. I am seeing published loads generating over 3100-3200+ ft-lbs of energy. 180 grain bullets being pushed as fast as 2855fps, 150's over 3100fps, and 123 grain bullets just under 3400fps.
7.62x54R is generally known for being 'in between' the .308 and 30-06 in terms of power. Which means you'll likely get a few more FPS out of a .30-06 with a 30'' pipe.

IMO the .338-06 is only superior if you use 300grain VLD's otherwise the .30-06 will pretty much have an all around advantage, if you're not taking advantage of the high SD high BC of the heavy for caliber 338. 35 whelen is a joke if you want flatter and 'more power.' From what I can tell muzzle energy is equal to the .338-06 and you're shooting roughly equal weight bullets, putting the .35 cal at a disadvantage because of the lower BC and SD bullets.

November 1, 2013, 05:22 PM	#68
JD0x0 Senior Member Join Date: January 30, 2013 Posts: 1,037	If you want flatter trajectory and 'slightly more power' go with a longer barrel. I am finding powerful load data for 7.62x54R out of a 29'' barrel. I am seeing published loads generating over 3100-3200+ ft-lbs of energy. 180 grain bullets being pushed as fast as 2855fps, 150's over 3100fps, and 123 grain bullets just under 3400fps. 7.62x54R is generally known for being 'in between' the .308 and 30-06 in terms of power. Which means you'll likely get a few more FPS out of a .30-06 with a 30'' pipe. IMO the .338-06 is only superior if you use 300grain VLD's otherwise the .30-06 will pretty much have an all around advantage, if you're not taking advantage of the high SD high BC of the heavy for caliber 338. 35 whelen is a joke if you want flatter and 'more power.' From what I can tell muzzle energy is equal to the .338-06 and you're shooting roughly equal weight bullets, putting the .35 cal at a disadvantage because of the lower BC and SD bullets. Last edited by JD0x0; November 1, 2013 at 05:29 PM.