Unleaded bullets in Marlin Microgrove 30-30

[MiG25]

Anybody try the various unleaded bullets in Marlin's Microgrove and any issues with accuracy?

I'm thinking Barnes, Hornady Monoflex, Nosler e-Tip.

Thanks.

 

[woodlotowner]

I use Barnes TSX in the 30-30. Works well.

 

[MiG25]

I use Barnes TSX in the 30-30. Works well.

Marlin Microgroove?

 

[Mr.Rigpig]

Marlin Microgroove?

Is there a 30-30 marlin that isn't microgroove?

 

[Snider shooter]

Some had Ballard rifling that was better suited for the cowboy crowd that shoot lead bullets.

 

[Mr.Rigpig]

As to the original question, I see no reason why they wouldn't work fine, the only bullets that have issues with microgroove that I am aware of are very soft lead.

 

[MiG25]

Is there a 30-30 marlin that isn't microgroove?

The Models 93 and 36 and the first 8+ years of the 336.

 

[MiG25]

As to the original question, I see no reason why they wouldn't work fine, the only bullets that have issues with microgroove that I am aware of are very soft lead.

I have read that Barnes likes to make their bullets undersized and Marlin Microgroove barrels are oversized.

 

[woodlotowner]

Marlin Microgroove?

Yes. Should have noted that.

 

[MiG25]

Yes. Should have noted that.

Thanks, I'll likely give them a try.

 

[freddyfour]

I use Barnes TSX in the 30-30. Works well.

Have to shot any game with this bullet? I've always been interested in the TSX put of the 30-30

 

[woodlotowner]

Have to shot any game with this bullet? I've always been interested in the TSX put of the 30-30

I have taken 2 whitetails with the old Marlin 336 in 30-30 in recent years using the Barnes TSX specifically designed for the 30-30 lever rifle. They work well. I did not recover those bullets, but I have recovered one from my 270 WSM. Text book results.

 

[Ardent]

While not a microgroove, the 140 monoflex is the most accurate bullet I’ve ever shot from my 94. 140 seems a good weight for the .30-30, wakes it up a bit.

 

[freddyfour]

While not a microgroove, the 140 monoflex is the most accurate bullet I’ve ever shot from my 94. 140 seems a good weight for the .30-30, wakes it up a bit.

I did not even know about this little gem, looks to have decent BC for a 30-30. Gave it a quick read but didn't see what the minimum velocity for expansion for it.

 

[woodlotowner]

While not a microgroove, the 140 monoflex is the most accurate bullet I’ve ever shot from my 94. 140 seems a good weight for the .30-30, wakes it up a bit.

I wasn't aware of that bullet either. I would definitely give it a try if I could find a source.

 

[freddyfour]

The Hodgdon reloading data has them going just over 2400 fps with LVR. Not to bad for a 30-30 eh.

Edit, actually looks like they have them slower then the 150's which is 2500fps, that is interesting. Seems there is a 4.5 grain difference in max powder, must be a deep seating bullet.

 

[MiG25]

30WCF bullets should have a cannelure position for the same OAL, so a shorter bullet will leave more room for powder, this is one reason (not the only reason) that the 32 Special is capable of more muzzle velocity.

 

[Ardent]

The monoflex has two, one at the factory position (OAL 1.720”) and one .125” further back. This said, my rifle is throated precisely for the shorter OAL, as the monoflex has a long ogive compared to older traditional lever action bullets. It makes 2400fps from my 20” barrel over LVR, so as far as .30-30s go it’s no slouch.

 

[MiG25]

There are also two 140gr Monoflexes, one for the 30WCF (30310) and one for the 308 Marlin Express (30311).

 

[freddyfour]

Looks like a store 30min away has some in stock, gonna give them a try. Give this 97yr old SRC something new