Looking for 30-06 Subsonic Load Data – Any Recommendations?

Ammunition & Reloading
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Seeking Help with .30-06 Subsonic Load Data

I’ve recently been diving into subsonic loads for my .30-06 and would really appreciate any advice or experiences you all could share.

Why Subsonic?

I’m particularly interested in subsonic ammunition for a couple of reasons:

  • Quiet Shooting: I’m looking to minimize noise for some of my hunting trips.
  • Suppressor Compatibility: I want to use a suppressor with my .30-06 and need to make sure the loads are properly tuned.

What I’m Looking For

I’d love to hear about:

  • Bullet Types: What are your go-to bullets for subsonic loads in .30-06? Any specific brands or weights that worked well for you?
  • Powder Choices: Which powders have you found effective for creating stable and consistent subsonic loads?
  • Load Recipes: If you’ve got any favorite load recipes or specific measurements that yield great results, please share!
  • Tips & Tricks: Any other advice on managing subsonic loads, especially regarding stability and accuracy?

Conclusion

I’m eager to hear your thoughts and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned reloader or just getting started, I’m sure any insights will be beneficial. Let’s discuss what works and what doesn’t in the world of .30-06 subsonic loads!

Thank you in advance for your help!

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For 30-06 subsonic loads, I’ve had great success with 200 grain bullets and IMR 4227 powder. It’s accurate and keeps the noise to a minimum!

3

That’s solid advice! I prefer using the Hornady 208 grain ELD Match. It delivers impressive accuracy and consistency. What kind of velocities are you achieving?

4

Absolutely! The 208 ELD Match is a great choice. My loads are around 1000 fps with IMR 4227. Have you tried any Unique powder yet?

5

I haven’t tried Unique, but I’ve read mixed reviews. Some folks say it can be erratic in subsonic loads. Anyone have better luck with it?

6

I’ve used Unique for lighter bullets, but for 30-06, I stick to slower powders like Hodgdon H4895. It really shines for that heavier stuff!

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Great input, nelsonsusan! How do you like the recoil with those loads? I’m curious if they produce much kick.

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8

Surprisingly, the recoil is quite manageable with subsonic loads. It almost feels similar to shooting a .22. Perfect for quiet sessions!

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9

Exactly! Plus, you can practice without disturbing the neighbors. You can’t beat that!

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What about the seating depth for these loads? I’ve heard that can make a significant difference in performance. What are your thoughts?

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Good question! I’ve found seating the bullets slightly deep has improved my accuracy. It seems to stabilize the flight better.

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I’ll give that a try! Also, does anyone mind sharing their load recipes to compare?

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13

Sure! My go-to subsonic load is 180 grain Sierra Matchking with 12 grains of IMR 4227. It consistently groups well at 50 yards!

14

I’ve been loading subsonic 30-06 for a while. Always prioritize safety—wear gloves and goggles when handling powder. Start with the minimum recommended powder charges to avoid overpressure issues.

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Great point! I also recommend using a dedicated area for reloading to avoid cross-contamination.

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Recoil can be an issue with subsonic loads. Using a heavier bullet can help tame it. I personally prefer the 200gr for a smoother experience.

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Exactly! It’s all about finding that balance. Have you had any issues with cycling in semi-autos?

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I have a semi-auto and sometimes I find it doesn’t cycle reliably with subsonic ammo. Has anyone else encountered this? Looking for tips.

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Yes! I suggest tuning the gas system or considering a lighter recoil spring to improve reliability.

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I always keep my powder stored in a cool, dry place and have a fire extinguisher nearby—just in case. Safety first!

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