Shooting "Overloads".

[PJgunner]

Originally Posted by captain2k_ca

I run some pretty hot loads in my .204. But nothing over any published info I can find.

And I always work up to the maximum...and in most of my reloads the max loads have not been the most accurate anyways!!!

That is generally good advice, but not always correct. Several older cartridges including the 7x57MM Mauser, 8x57MM Mauser and 30-06 for one reason of another are not loaded to their full potential fo fear they will be used in one of the weak guns originally chambered for the round or in the case of the 8MM, different bore sizes. (.318" vs .323") The 7MM in weak Spanish Mausers and of course the 06 in low number Springfields are other examples.
However, take a modern rifle such as the M700 Reminton or Model 70 Winchester which come chambered in some serious magnum rounds and tell me why they cannot shoot the above mentioned cartridges loaded to the same basic pressures as those "modern" magnum rounds?
Sadly, data for those modernized loads for those rounds is not available. One can only try and work them up by the seat of their pants which, while possible for an experienced handloader, is definitely not recommended for those just starting out and frankly even highly experienced loads should think twice. I have worked up some very warm loads for my Winchester M70 Featherweight, primarliy a 140 gr. Nosler Ballistic tip at a bit over 2800 FPS. That same load though is too hot in my custom FN Mauser and I'll have to start all over again for that rifle.
My hot loads are worked up during the heat of an Arizona summer with temps running anywhere from 100 to 115 degrees. Those loads should be safe during the cooler weather of hunting seasons. it does require checking the sight at the temps of the hunting area though, preferably a few miles from the actual hunt area.
Paul B.