Just took delivery of a brand new 1952 M1 Garand in 30-06. Also picked up enough M2 ball chow to feed it until I generate a bag-o-brass.
Looking over what I have in powder and projectiles for .30 cal, it looks like Varget and 149 grain projectile. Looking at the Lee manual, the Varget start load for 30-06 generates the M2 muzzle velocity to within 1-2 fps. If it also cycles the action life is good. However, if for some reason the combination does not work, I hesitate to increase the charge beyond the M2 ball spec. Should I seek a slower powder? A powder that has the target velocity at the never exceed charge? Something else?
Looking over what I have in powder and projectiles for .30 cal, it looks like Varget and 149 grain projectile. Looking at the Lee manual, the Varget start load for 30-06 generates the M2 muzzle velocity to within 1-2 fps. If it also cycles the action life is good. However, if for some reason the combination does not work, I hesitate to increase the charge beyond the M2 ball spec. Should I seek a slower powder? A powder that has the target velocity at the never exceed charge? Something else?