I love .30-30, it's not only nostalgic for me but it's been a proven hunting round year after year. My favorite load is 31.0gr Hodgdon Varget with a Barnes solid copper 150gr TSX FN FB (30334). Barnes developed that bullet specifically for .30-30. It shoots 1 moa groups at 100 yds in my Marlin 336W with the "Micro Groove" rifling, which completely exceeded by expectations. But it's nice to have that confidence in your ammo!
i remember when you could pick up marlin and I Winchester 30-30 rifles good working order, plenty accurate from rough to pretty good finish around 100-125 dollars each used by owners, 125-170 dollars. 175-200 excellent shape, used but looking new, these two prices were gun shops and pawn shops. in my foothills of the blue ridge mountains in North Carolina after deer season through when just before tax refunds start going out is the prime time to let it be known your looking wanting a few reasonably priced used guns , the fact lots of people will spend bill money thinking I’ll catch it up later but it don’t work out and they are needing some quick cash. you watch what your doing, don’t get in a big hurry and deal can be had . probably 5-6 mounths ago me and a friend were on the phone and he asked if i knew anyone that might want to buy a Russian mosin nagant 7.62 x 54 . he knew I mostly own and collect old military rifles and reload ammunition for them. i ask how much we dickered around he said would you give 100 dollars. i said yes but I want to see it first . it was in really good shape made in the 1940s carbine, folded bayonet. good bore needs minor work on front sight. and I can still make profit if I want to. but it goes in the collection. my collection is a working collection. i hunt with them . i don’t want a firearm iam afraid to get scratched or some dings on it . I’ve hunted in places so thick I would have to at times crawl on my hands and knees dragging the rifle beside me to get through it. the excitement quickly left after finding the deer and thinking is the the wadi got to take it out? but I never left a deer because I couldn’t get it out. that’s part of hunting. food is very important. nana and papa wishing you well and good hunting.
Love the 30-30! I still have my old Model 94 I bought at Sears for $179. (A T/C Contender in 30-30 can be as accurate as anything in your safe.) One comment: chatting with a buddy while reloading is an invitation to mistakes...
Love my Marlin 30-30. I got a late 1970’s model used several years ago. It was a great deal at the time for $250. I grew up shooting my father’s marlin 30-30 for deer hunting and fell in love with it.
I grew up hunting with a 30-30 Winchester Model 94. Has the old school top eject instead of side eject which makes it a little more authentic in my book. Out of all the rifles I own it still is my favorite. Super fun. Great power & energy.
Being a left hand shooter the lever action was a great fit for me. My parents made me a wonderful Christmas morning when they gave me my Winchester '94. rifle... not carbine. I've only taken three deer. All close shots in good old Tennessee woods. None went 20 yards. I have good peep sights and this rifle does just what I need. My first deer was taken on my grandfather's farm, then owned by my parents, with the .30-30 from my parents, shooting my reloads, field dressed with the knife from my dad when I was 10 years old. Great connections all around.
@@markgoostree6334 There’s nothing like that! That’s what people don’t understand about this kind of thing. The sense of fulfillment and rightness can never be expressed.
as a reloader of over 42 years and a gun trader in years past I shoot every one no exceptions. if I said this I did with it,it would do it. i always encouraged them to shoot them before before making a deal. i never had a bad 30-30 . some more accurate than outhers but plenty accurate for shooting any thing the wanted. my last 30-30 I gave my sister when all this rioting and looting started for self defense. it’s simple to use, load , unload,fast handling,from reasonable to wonderful accuracy. plenty of power . my opinion a proven weapon that doesn’t jam if properly operated. and don’t require a magazine and a kick stand or what i call a panic stick to bang your round in the chamber like your ar type rifles. any good rifleman or marksman with a scoped accurate 30-30 with there tuned reloads should have no trouble taking game 200-250 yards. i greatly enjoyed the video. Nana and papa wishing you well
Any idea what would cause one to not load? I had one that you would have to tip it to the side to get the round to chamber. This happened with factory ammo. I did replace the loading gate as that was suggested for a potential reason why it wouldn't cycle unless tipped sideways. Thanks for any help
Love my 30-30’s. I have a Marlin 336 and Winchester 94. Took my first ever deer with a borrowed Glenfield 30-30 with a fixed 4x Weaver scope. Gavin,, did you really ask if the Remington soft point was adequate for deer? That rifle and load has been a mainstay in the Northeast deer woods for decades. Thanks for sharing
I had a Marlin 336 RC, I had it from age of 12 and I loaded all my own ammo. I cast my own bullets with Lyman mold 176 grain with Gas check, I used IMR 4227 19 grains. I put over 1000 rounds through the gun, I had the gun for 39 years, I could hit pop cans at 200 yards without a scope. The rear site was in level 3. I loved that gun, easy to shoot and heavy enough not to throw over your shoulder. That was why I got that gun, a winchester was to light for me.
Excellent video. Have never owned a .30-30 but have nothing but respect for the cartridge. I own a Winchester 1894 in .25-35 which I love. Get a Winchester or a Marlin. A Savage 99 would be cool too.
Always been a sucker for a lever gun and a single action revolver. My 30-30 has taken everything from deer to black bear. My son claims it is "his" now a days haha. Fun and easy to reload 30-30 as well. Thanks for another great video
This is why I absolutely love this channel! So thankful for Guy. I love the 30-30. It's just fun. Who doesn't know who P. O. Ackley is? It's surprising how many people never heard of him. Maybe you guys could do some of the Ackley Improved carteridges? Or a history on him? Thanks G. - Good job!
I like how he slyly refers to that Glenfield rifle as a "Marlin built gun"... I have a 70's build Model 30a. Great starter for the kids deer hunting and fun to plink with!
Magnificent video. Thanks men. I have used the Winchester model 94 chambered in 30-30 for more than 55 years. If used in a 150-200 yard range in steady hands and good eyes, it will cleanly kill any medium and large game animal in North America. I know from experience that it will take deer, moose, elk, and bear. My favorite cartridges are the 150 Barnes X, 170 Winchester PowerPoint and 190 grain Buffalo Bore!
I have the Marlin 336 in 30-30 as well as a twin in 35 Remington both outstanding deer rifles. The one in the video looked like a Glenfield made by Marlin? I believe sold through Sears and Roebuck? No rifle collection is complete without at least one lever gun. Ive fired the Winchester, the Henry and the Marlin and I feel the Marlin is the best choice.
After sighting in at 60 feet, I could easily cover 5 shots with a nickel ruclips.net/user/postUgkxQt2uORDRfFOVSrO4idv4B90ThT6EOnEL ! Truly a pleasure to shoot! Scope was easy to adjust for eye relief. Only problem the varmints must have seen it delivered lol!Update: So impressed with shot groups at 30 yards I purchased a Hammers 3×9 with adjustable Objective scope! Now a true nail driver!
Any of the guns you mentioned will be a fine choice. I have a 1978 Marlin 336 in 30-30 that I absolutely love. So keeping an eye out on the used market can net you some fantastic results.
Great vid. I fire 150gr Barnes bullets with a max load of LVR powder from my 26in model 94, zips through most things with little to no tracking involved. Great cartridge.
I was just recently fortunate enough to purchase an "unfired" Winchester Buffalo Bill Commemorative Model 94 lever action in .30-30, octagonal barrel. Have not yet fired it but it is a beauty. Likely the best-looking firearm in my entire collection. Can't go wrong, in my opinion, with this rifle. It was the original. This particular example I now own was manufactured in the early 1970's. He even through in 2 full boxes of ammo.
Two years ago, I picked up a 30-30 Savage 99 made in 1925. In pretty good shape for its age, after a deep cleaning, it’s roughly moa at 100 yds. With my eyes, I doubt I’ll ever try to put one on an animal past that range. But, I can’t wait to get it into the field for a real hunt! Thanks for another great video!
Glad to see this on your channel, I love the 30-30 lever guns. Ive owned 3 model 94s. My first gun was a 94 and I also have a Mossberg 464. I really like the early marlin rifles though. My Mossberg has the marlin style stock but is basically a 94 clone. Its just cheep enough to not worry about thrashing in the pa deer woods. Good luck on your persuit into 30-30. And try to remember that this platform is a minute of meat gun. I used to get bummed out by the group sizes, but in reality 2inch groups are excellent in this rifle, where as 3-4 are acceptable.
Most of us who enjoy shooting love and embrace the lever gun. 30-30 has taken more deer and fed more families than probably any other cartridge in North America but I believe that it may be fading into obscurity with so many other cartridges out there now. I do really like Hornady flex tip 160 grain lever evolution bullets as they are extremely accurate in many older guns and especially the new lever guns.
The .30-.30 can only be loaded to a certain level because the case tends to be thin. It will not usually handle very high charges of powder. I load for both the lever action and bolt action .30-.30. In the bolt action or break action pointed bullets can be used and it helps a lot if I am looking for velocity which really doesn't help and maybe even harms the result from a thirty-thirty.
Good close range deer round. Surpring how many elk & moose have been harvested over the years with a 30/30. You should get a beautiful golden Henry side load.
I have the JC Penny Marlin with the pressed deer inlay stock. I think the department store guns are cool relics of American history. Carrying the Marlin 336 carbine with iron sights through the woods is a joy. No sling required. I haven't loaded any ammo for it, but it is somewhere near the bottom of my to do list. My powder throw is not as consistent as I'd like. It's not much extra work to throw a charge in a scoop that is just under the desired charge and then trickle grains into the scoop on a scale to get precise charges. Use a funnel to fill the cases. Moving the cases in and out of the holder feels like more steps even if it is not.
I do have a 30/30 Marlin and as I've gotten older I usually hunt early season with it, just more challenging. I've had my best luck with Sierras' ProHunter 125gr. HP bullet (sku 2020). I got the idea from a Federal loading and for deer it's just the bomb running just over 2600fps. I use iron sights so I limit my range to 100 yards or so but it drops Whitetails like they were hit with a sledge hammer, most bullets don't exit but the critters don't get very far either.
I have a 336 made in 1977 from serial number. One on my favorite loads is a Hornady 160 gr FTX on top of either 29g of IMR4895 or 28g of H4895. Another load I like is the Hornady 150g Interlock RN (#3035) on top of 33g of H4895 or 32g of IMR4895.
My 1956 Winchester 94 is chambered in 30-30. These days I just shoot it at the range. My powder choice is Trail Boss. Powder Coated lead cast bullets are my favorite to use. To add to the fun, I use a Lee Hand Press for my reloading of the 30-30 and also for my Savage 99 in 300 Savage. If I were to purchase a lever 30 30 today, I would go with a Henry.
Love my 30-30s. My current favorites are my Winchester and my marlin. They have been Indestructible. My old Henry with the brass receiver shot it’s last round about 3 years ago after about 3-4000 rounds it was done.( completely worn out) Yes I shot 30-30 a lot. Anywhere from 1500-2000 per year
Sweet, I have two 30-30 rifles a Marlin " waffle top " and a Winchester " pre 64" model 94, both are a blast to shoot, Gavin, I'd find an older Marlin or Winchester........
When I saw that a new video had dropped my first thought was will we see Guy today. Really enjoying the video's with Guy as they are more in line with the reloading that I do, I do watch them all though. Good job today.
Since it is a rifle with the mindset of tradition, I'm fond of the top eject models. If you want to get obscure, look for a Ted Williams lever rifle. It's pretty much a Winchester 94 with a few internal differences. Winchester made them for Sears back in the day.
I had one back in the day, bought from Sears for like $100 circa 1972. It did go bang and I collected a few deer with it, not up to Winchester quality but I had no problems with it and it made me a fan of lever guns to this day.
The Ted Williams levers had minor differences from the Winchester parent. The loading gate and the elevator or lift plate were cheaper stamped and plated. The wood was usually not as nice too. Still functioned and held their accuracy. I have a Ted Williams in 32 Win Special and a Winchester in 30-30 and don't see much difference between them. I reload for both and found annealing the brass after 3 reloads extends the brass life considerably.
I had to chuckle when you mentioned economy loading. I've been loading 30-30 ammo with the same Lee Loader since 1961. I'm still shooting the same gun as well. A Model 336 Marlin, iron sites. If I take a deer at over 80 yards it's rare and I start to imagine I'm a sniper shooter. 🙂
I love my 336. Have had it since 97. Put a Lyman receiver sight on it (#46 i believe). Shoot just fine. Using the edge of my plastic toolbox as a rest for my forward hand (not a benchrest by any means), i can consistently get groups a little over MOA with factory ammo. Haven't started loading yet, but i will. I have not tried the Hornady FTX bullets, but they may extend the range a bit. Looking forward to trying 125 gr spitzers in my Savage 340 and single loaded in the Marlin (1 in chamber, 1 in mag) to see how much flatter they shoot. I anticipate 2500-2550 fps, if i remember the load manual data correctly. The 30-30 is a great cartridge for hunting, defense, and general wood use. People need to rediscover it. There is a good reason why Winchester has sold over 6 million 94's, plus all the Mossbergs, Henrys, Marlins, store branded guns, and others. Pretty sure that more deer are still taken with 30-30 every year than any of the more "modern" cartridges, including 30-06.
I have had great results using IMR 3031 powder and the Speer Hot Core bullet from my Marlin! 30-30 Winchester Speer 130 grain IMR 3031 35.5 grains Speer 150 IMR 3031 35.0 grains Speer 170 IMR 3031 32.0 grains
I'm not sure how many 30-30 bolt action rifles have been made, but I am familiar with both the Remington 788 and the Savage 340, both of which were offered in caliber 30-30. This would appear to offer a much greater latitude in loading ammo, as these guns did not limit the shooter to flat nose bullets. Thus, a wide array of bullet weights and types could be loaded....but not really. While the 150 and 170 grain flat/round nosed bullets could be replaced with pointed 150 and 165 grain bullets, the rifles then became single shot firearms, as the magazine boxes were barely long enough for standard factory loads. Ammo loaded with pointed bullets simply would not fit in the magazine.
One of the rifles that I regret selling back in the mid 1990s was my Winchester 94 Ranger model in 30-30 Winchester. I think I’ll have to buy me a new Winchester model 94 one day soon 😀.
Love this video! I just recently bought a Henry H009 30-30. I always wanted a 30-30 and it is everything I hoped for. Im using cfe223 and speer hot core 150s.
I have several Marlin levers, 4 of which are 30-30's, and I would suggest you go with a used, JM Marlin, ideally pre-crossbar safety. They're classics, they're easy to tweak for an improved trigger and action, and they're great with all kinds of optics, whether it's an aperture site, a red dot, or a scope. I personally prefer a 2-7X32, 1" diameter scope, like a Vortex or Leupold, but a 1-4/1-6x also will work fine. I have a 1949 waffletop with a Williams aperture rear sight and a fiber-optic front sight and then I have them with different variations of scopes. They're a lot of fun to shoot and they're American classics that should be in the collection of any serious shooter.
... don't very often see anybody cleaning flash holes from both sides ... I've found many cases with a lot of flash hole burrs that if left in would interfere with the flame front from the primer to the powder charge possibly affecting accuracy
In relation to your hog hunt statement, Bill Wilson developed the 300 HAM'r as a 30-30 in the AR platform for hunting deer & hogs. Should be a good platform, just need more capacity for all the hogs. :-)
Shoulder bump is what I do too. After my sizing.... I then run every sized case thru the action... in fact, I "slam" the action closed, so that the case's shoulder is bumped back for near zero headspace fit. That results in a perfect fitted case in THAT chamber. Then I double check case length too. That is important for uniform bullet crimp. Marlin rifles typically allow for an overall cartridge length of 2.600" Winchester 94 rifles use a shorter overall length of about 2.5" BUT make sure that the follower will elevate (or lift) a cartridge of that length from the tube magazine. These are a few things that I do when loading for 30-30s in a rear locking lever action like a Marlin or Winchester. Dont load them too hot, because in a rear locking action, the higher the pressures, the more the cases will stretch.
I had trouble with case necks splitting on reloading after just a few loads, but the solution to this was easy, to lubricate the neck with an oil-soaked Q-tip after lubing the case. An experienced reloader friend had suggested annealing the case necks by standing them up in a pan of shallow water, heating the necks briefly with a torch and then tipping them into water but this did not cut down on splitting - maybe I had gone about it the wrong way.
I just love to watch Guy and Travis both on here....... very interesting stuff..... I am too 46 yrs old and never shot a lever action....... Some day I will get a chance to. Both of my daughters started out hunting deer with a 30/30 (friends' gun).
I love my Marlin 30-30. Added some upgrades with some RPP goodies to give it a modern feel while still keeping that traditional look. Do a collaboration build with the RPP guys!
In the UK here. Got a 336 30-30. We have wild boar here and mine smacks them down no issues. Home loads are 125gr Sierra flat nose hollow points. Also the 190gr SubX hornady bullets are brilliant out to 100 metres especially on the boar
You should try casting your own bullets if you handload. (I'm assuming you do because of the bullets you mentioned.) RCBS makes a mould for a flat point that casts out to about 190 grains with gas check and lube. You can drive it to 2,000 fps very safely and, out to 150 yards or so, it knocks medium game flat. Do not, however, use cast bullets in barrels with micro groove rifling.
Since you asked Gavin maybe consider buying either a nice Henry or maybe a stainless laminate Marlin might be a nice compromise for a modern shooter like yourself. Kind of a blend of old and new that way. Don't overlook the 35 Remington either as a cartridge choice.
Get a Ruger, they will have Ballard rifling. One of the 1894 in 44mag. would be nice also. I hope it has a 1-20 twist instead of that crazy 1-38 twist. Enjoyed the show!
I’ve got a Marlin .30-30 that I’ve had since I was 14 it’s an awesome rifle. My dads Henry is a piece of art though very beautiful rifle. Depends if you care about aesthetics a little more than saving a few hundred dollars.
Your channel is so much better with diversity. I use the Sierra 170's with 31.5 grains of W748. Really impressive accuracy for for an old Marlin lever action. IIRC they pass the Lab Radar just under 2000 fps .
i had a Winchester model 94 that was given to me years ago. i used it for hog hunting in Florida. great gun for hog hunting. i fell on hard times and had to sell a bunch of my collection. i finally got a chance to get another model 94 for my collection. took it home and put a couple rounds though it and couldnt be happier. cant wait to get it in the woods.
How accurate is that powder measure? New folks to reloading need to know about case preparation. Case preparation is the tedious part of the loading process but very important.
I've started making galley loads for my kids....100grain cast bullet over 4.5 grains of tite group....recoil is like a 22 but feels awesome because it's an adults rifle.
I'd recommend a Marlin for the ese of mounting a scope if you want. I'd recommend a 22" barrel if they (Ruger) offers one (hopefully with a pistol grip), and shoot the Speer 130 grain flat tip. (I love my Winchester 64 Deluxe Hunter, my dad's first rifle!)
Lapua brass would help a bunch in that cartridge, a whole lot less stretch period and whole lot less trimming and of course you need to anneal the brass. Happy reloading
*A new oversized or not-yet-fit 'locking bolt' or "locking block' can tighten up your headspace... by pressing bolt group further forward. Professional grade fitting or 'professional lapping in' is usually required for the ideal fit. These are not really a drop in part. Wear, improper fitting, or over-polishing the parts can create excessive headspace which will cause excessive bulging, and case stretch, and primers backing out, etc.*
What are some good 1x to 2x on low end scopes to put on something like this, meant for closer woods shots. 3x is way too high for a starting power in the dense stuff in low light. I know Vortex does a strait walled version of the Crossfire Scope, but they got it wrong with it being a 3-9x40mm. Should of been something like a 2-10x40, or a 2-7x which would of made more sense. Id like to see some hunting 1-8x range that are not tactical, and meant for hunting. Bushnell might have some options, but their quality hasn't impressed me throughout the years, so they are not even on my radar.
Check out the Primary Arms 1x prism scope. It weighs 6 oz and is as small as a red dot, and comes with mounting hardware to set it up to 5 different heights. You can fit it to just about anything. They also have a 2.5 prism scope. It weighs almost a pound but the glass is amazing, it is compact and it focuses down to about 15 yards, and is under $200.
I switched my scope out for a red dot. I was having the same problem as you. I absolutely love the red dot on it and also believe I can get a shot off much quicker as well.
@@dandingfelder6763 I've thought about trying one, wonder if anyone makes a red dot with etched reticle, so even if battery quits in the field, you still can aim.
The 30-30 is the only gun my dad used for dear hunting, it is very affective. He good a deer every year some short range and others 100 to 150 yards. His gun was the Winchester 30-30. I have the Marlin 30-30 which I like better as the stock has a better grip positioning. The Wnchester stock is more straight which pounds your shoulder harder than the Marilin. A funny story is about my uncle, went hunting with us one time. He seen a nice buck he got so excited that, withi his 30-30 lever action, began with his mouth saying bag and then ejected a loaded round on the ground. He emptied his gun on the ground then ask if he hit the deer as it walked away. Everyone tiried very hard not to contain themseleves. This what is knowen as Buck Fever.
Go get a pre '64 model 94 Winchester. Lyman peep sight and a hooded front sight. It's funny how things go full circle. A new generation of shooters are discovering what folks have known for over a century, the ole 30-30 will put about anything down quickly and efficiently at reasonable ranges. Bigger is not always better. It's also been protecting homes, livestock, and people without fuss all this time as well.
I have my Dads pre 64 model 94 Winchester.. I shot my first deer with it in 1976… I load 180 grain round nose.. IMR 3031… Been loading them for 50 years.. always right on.. Love the gun.. He got it at Sears and Robucks.. still have the original Box a case it came in.. 😁
Lever guns are real cool. I like Marlins and Winchester and older style my favorite. I took a 22 mag out and a bunch of ladies started using it. They loved that thing. They are great for new shooters
I love .30-30, it's not only nostalgic for me but it's been a proven hunting round year after year. My favorite load is 31.0gr Hodgdon Varget with a Barnes solid copper 150gr TSX FN FB (30334). Barnes developed that bullet specifically for .30-30. It shoots 1 moa groups at 100 yds in my Marlin 336W with the "Micro Groove" rifling, which completely exceeded by expectations. But it's nice to have that confidence in your ammo!
i remember when you could pick up marlin and I Winchester 30-30 rifles good working order, plenty accurate from rough to pretty good finish around 100-125 dollars each used by owners, 125-170 dollars. 175-200 excellent shape, used but looking new, these two prices were gun shops and pawn shops. in my foothills of the blue ridge mountains in North Carolina after deer season through when just before tax refunds start going out is the prime time to let it be known your looking wanting a few reasonably priced used guns , the fact lots of people will spend bill money thinking I’ll catch it up later but it don’t work out and they are needing some quick cash. you watch what your doing, don’t get in a big hurry and deal can be had . probably 5-6 mounths ago me and a friend were on the phone and he asked if i knew anyone that might want to buy a Russian mosin nagant 7.62 x 54 . he knew I mostly own and collect old military rifles and reload ammunition for them. i ask how much we dickered around he said would you give 100 dollars. i said yes but I want to see it first . it was in really good shape made in the 1940s carbine, folded bayonet. good bore needs minor work on front sight. and I can still make profit if I want to. but it goes in the collection. my collection is a working collection. i hunt with them . i don’t want a firearm iam afraid to get scratched or some dings on it . I’ve hunted in places so thick I would have to at times crawl on my hands and knees dragging the rifle beside me to get through it. the excitement quickly left after finding the deer and thinking is the the wadi got to take it out? but I never left a deer because I couldn’t get it out. that’s part of hunting. food is very important. nana and papa wishing you well and good hunting.
The JM models are selling for over1k.
@@tallyman15 I bought my JM model back in 2019 at a used gun store for 370 and it's a workhorse. Smoothest action I own and I have Sakos and Tikkas.
Sound like a great load. I need to try that Barnes TSX bullet in my Marlin.
The reason it was developed "Specifically for the 30-30" is the same reason all the other companies did it too. It has to expand at 30-30 velocities.
Love the 30-30! I still have my old Model 94 I bought at Sears for $179. (A T/C Contender in 30-30 can be as accurate as anything in your safe.) One comment: chatting with a buddy while reloading is an invitation to mistakes...
Love my Marlin 30-30. I got a late 1970’s model used several years ago. It was a great deal at the time for $250. I grew up shooting my father’s marlin 30-30 for deer hunting and fell in love with it.
I grew up hunting with a 30-30 Winchester Model 94. Has the old school top eject instead of side eject which makes it a little more authentic in my book. Out of all the rifles I own it still is my favorite. Super fun. Great power & energy.
Being a lefty i prefer the winchester, but the Marlin micro grove is a very accurate improvement i just had to learn to bob and weve when cycling
My 130 year old Marlin is side eject. Top eject was a winchester/Browining kinda thing. Mine has ballard rifling, havent tried it much yet.
Being a left hand shooter the lever action was a great fit for me. My parents made me a wonderful Christmas morning when they gave me my Winchester '94. rifle... not carbine. I've only taken three deer. All close shots in good old Tennessee woods. None went 20 yards. I have good peep sights and this rifle does just what I need. My first deer was taken on my grandfather's farm, then owned by my parents, with the .30-30 from my parents, shooting my reloads, field dressed with the knife from my dad when I was 10 years old. Great connections all around.
@@markgoostree6334
There’s nothing like that! That’s what people don’t understand about this kind of thing. The sense of fulfillment and rightness can never be expressed.
Cast bullet target loads are a blast. I use Linotype or wheel weights and pistol powders for 50 yard plinking.
Cheap trigger time, a pound of powder makes a lot of bangs!
as a reloader of over 42 years and a gun trader in years past I shoot every one no exceptions. if I said this I did with it,it would do it. i always encouraged them to shoot them before before making a deal. i never had a bad 30-30 . some more accurate than outhers but plenty accurate for shooting any thing the wanted. my last 30-30 I gave my sister when all this rioting and looting started for self defense. it’s simple to use, load , unload,fast handling,from reasonable to wonderful accuracy. plenty of power . my opinion a proven weapon that doesn’t jam if properly operated. and don’t require a magazine and a kick stand or what i call a panic stick to bang your round in the chamber like your ar type rifles. any good rifleman or marksman with a scoped accurate 30-30 with there tuned reloads should have no trouble taking game 200-250 yards. i greatly enjoyed the video. Nana and papa wishing you well
Any idea what would cause one to not load? I had one that you would have to tip it to the side to get the round to chamber. This happened with factory ammo. I did replace the loading gate as that was suggested for a potential reason why it wouldn't cycle unless tipped sideways. Thanks for any help
Love my 30-30’s. I have a Marlin 336 and Winchester 94. Took my first ever deer with a borrowed Glenfield 30-30 with a fixed 4x Weaver scope. Gavin,, did you really ask if the Remington soft point was adequate for deer? That rifle and load has been a mainstay in the Northeast deer woods for decades. Thanks for sharing
I had a Marlin 336 RC, I had it from age of 12 and I loaded all my own ammo. I cast my own bullets with Lyman mold 176 grain with Gas check, I used IMR 4227 19 grains. I put over 1000 rounds through the gun, I had the gun for 39 years, I could hit pop cans at 200 yards without a scope. The rear site was in level 3. I loved that gun, easy to shoot and heavy enough not to throw over your shoulder. That was why I got that gun, a winchester was to light for me.
Got in stock all ammunition ✅
30-30
9mm
12 gauge
.223 and more !!!!
Don’t miss this out
Excellent video. Have never owned a .30-30 but have nothing but respect for the cartridge. I own a Winchester 1894 in .25-35 which I love. Get a Winchester or a Marlin. A Savage 99 would be cool too.
Nice to see you working with the 30-30. Great old cartridge.
Always been a sucker for a lever gun and a single action revolver. My 30-30 has taken everything from deer to black bear. My son claims it is "his" now a days haha. Fun and easy to reload 30-30 as well. Thanks for another great video
Got in stock all ammunition ✅
30-30
9mm
12 gauge
.223 and more !!!!
Don’t miss this out
This is why I absolutely love this channel! So thankful for Guy.
I love the 30-30. It's just fun.
Who doesn't know who P. O. Ackley is? It's surprising how many people never heard of him.
Maybe you guys could do some of the Ackley Improved carteridges? Or a history on him?
Thanks G. - Good job!
Got in stock all ammunition ✅
30-30
9mm
12 gauge
.223 and more !!!!
Don’t miss this out
Great video, love the 30-30
Got in stock all ammunition ✅
30-30
9mm
12 gauge
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I like how he slyly refers to that Glenfield rifle as a "Marlin built gun"... I have a 70's build Model 30a. Great starter for the kids deer hunting and fun to plink with!
Magnificent video. Thanks men. I have used the Winchester model 94 chambered in 30-30 for more than 55 years. If used in a 150-200 yard range in steady hands and good eyes, it will cleanly kill any medium and large game animal in North America. I know from experience that it will take deer, moose, elk, and bear. My favorite cartridges are the 150 Barnes X, 170 Winchester PowerPoint and 190 grain Buffalo Bore!
I have the Marlin 336 in 30-30 as well as a twin in 35 Remington both outstanding deer rifles. The one in the video looked like a Glenfield made by Marlin? I believe sold through Sears and Roebuck?
No rifle collection is complete without at least one lever gun. Ive fired the Winchester, the Henry and the Marlin and I feel the Marlin is the best choice.
After sighting in at 60 feet, I could easily cover 5 shots with a nickel ruclips.net/user/postUgkxQt2uORDRfFOVSrO4idv4B90ThT6EOnEL ! Truly a pleasure to shoot! Scope was easy to adjust for eye relief. Only problem the varmints must have seen it delivered lol!Update: So impressed with shot groups at 30 yards I purchased a Hammers 3×9 with adjustable Objective scope! Now a true nail driver!
Talk about timely. I'm also a 40 year old 30-30 virgin but I'm about to fix that - I've got a new to me 1929 Winnie 94 in the mail!
Any of the guns you mentioned will be a fine choice. I have a 1978 Marlin 336 in 30-30 that I absolutely love. So keeping an eye out on the used market can net you some fantastic results.
I don't think you could go wrong with any of those rifles. I have a '94 Winchester made in 1953 and I absolutely love it.
Great vid. I fire 150gr Barnes bullets with a max load of LVR powder from my 26in model 94, zips through most things with little to no tracking involved. Great cartridge.
I was just recently fortunate enough to purchase an "unfired" Winchester Buffalo Bill Commemorative Model 94 lever action in .30-30, octagonal barrel. Have not yet fired it but it is a beauty. Likely the best-looking firearm in my entire collection. Can't go wrong, in my opinion, with this rifle. It was the original. This particular example I now own was manufactured in the early 1970's. He even through in 2 full boxes of ammo.
Get a bore scope, if it is unfired then don't fire it, get a different rifle to fire, leave that one in the safe
Two years ago, I picked up a 30-30 Savage 99 made in 1925. In pretty good shape for its age, after a deep cleaning, it’s roughly moa at 100 yds. With my eyes, I doubt I’ll ever try to put one on an animal past that range. But, I can’t wait to get it into the field for a real hunt!
Thanks for another great video!
Always enjoy the videos with guy!
Glad to see this on your channel, I love the 30-30 lever guns. Ive owned 3 model 94s. My first gun was a 94 and I also have a Mossberg 464. I really like the early marlin rifles though. My Mossberg has the marlin style stock but is basically a 94 clone. Its just cheep enough to not worry about thrashing in the pa deer woods. Good luck on your persuit into 30-30. And try to remember that this platform is a minute of meat gun. I used to get bummed out by the group sizes, but in reality 2inch groups are excellent in this rifle, where as 3-4 are acceptable.
Works wonderfully with hogs. Started hunting in Florida with a .30-30 where shots are limited to less than 100 yards.
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hahahaha
Limited to less than 100 yards.
hahahaha
ruclips.net/user/shortsUZAo05AGaMY?feature=share
Most of us who enjoy shooting love and embrace the lever gun. 30-30 has taken more deer and fed more families than probably any other cartridge in North America but I believe that it may be fading into obscurity with so many other cartridges out there now. I do really like Hornady flex tip 160 grain lever evolution bullets as they are extremely accurate in many older guns and especially the new lever guns.
Hornady flex tip. Nothing but sales hype to sell bullets.
The .30-.30 can only be loaded to a certain level because the case tends to be thin. It will not usually handle very high charges of powder. I load for both the lever action and bolt action .30-.30. In the bolt action or break action pointed bullets can be used and it helps a lot if I am looking for velocity which really doesn't help and maybe even harms the result from a thirty-thirty.
I used to shoot a 10" 30-30 Thompson Contender for metallic silhouette competition. Bit jumpy in a handgun.
Lever guns and especially in 30-30 are just nostalgic!
I rock the same set up for a 3030 carbine barrel and short tube and irons, best brush gun, so natural to shoot
Good close range deer round. Surpring how many elk & moose have been harvested over the years with a 30/30. You should get a beautiful golden Henry side load.
Well Ruger says their Marlins will have a hammer forged barrel, so you might want wait. But most prefer the micro groove barrel.
I have the JC Penny Marlin with the pressed deer inlay stock. I think the department store guns are cool relics of American history. Carrying the Marlin 336 carbine with iron sights through the woods is a joy. No sling required.
I haven't loaded any ammo for it, but it is somewhere near the bottom of my to do list. My powder throw is not as consistent as I'd like. It's not much extra work to throw a charge in a scoop that is just under the desired charge and then trickle grains into the scoop on a scale to get precise charges. Use a funnel to fill the cases. Moving the cases in and out of the holder feels like more steps even if it is not.
I love store branded firearms from Sears, Montgomery Wards, J C Penny's and Western Auto. Just a bit of history.
You guys should do a review shoot an reload video on the marlin 1895 classic chambered in 45-70 government.
The Winchester model 94, first gun I bought 50 years ago
I do have a 30/30 Marlin and as I've gotten older I usually hunt early season with it, just more challenging. I've had my best luck with Sierras' ProHunter 125gr. HP bullet (sku 2020). I got the idea from a Federal loading and for deer it's just the bomb running just over 2600fps. I use iron sights so I limit my range to 100 yards or so but it drops Whitetails like they were hit with a sledge hammer, most bullets don't exit but the critters don't get very far either.
just recently inherited my wifes grandfathers pre 64 winchester in 30-30 its in fantastic shape cant wait to get it out and shoot it
Is one of my absolute favorite calibers to shoot and hunt with👍😁🇺🇸
Good times!!!
I have a 336 made in 1977 from serial number. One on my favorite loads is a Hornady 160 gr FTX on top of either 29g of IMR4895 or 28g of H4895. Another load I like is the Hornady 150g Interlock RN (#3035) on top of 33g of H4895 or 32g of IMR4895.
I own a model 94 Winchester30 manufactured somewhere between 1942 to 1944. It was my grandpa's saddle rifle that my dad bought him for his birthday.
Marlin is awesome. I own a 1980 Marlin. I own a Henry in 38/357 too. Love them both.
My 1956 Winchester 94 is chambered in 30-30.
These days I just shoot it at the range.
My powder choice is Trail Boss.
Powder Coated lead cast bullets are my favorite to use.
To add to the fun, I use a Lee Hand Press for my reloading of the 30-30 and
also for my Savage 99 in 300 Savage.
If I were to purchase a lever 30 30 today, I would go with a Henry.
Love my 30-30s. My current favorites are my Winchester and my marlin. They have been Indestructible. My old Henry with the brass receiver shot it’s last round about 3 years ago after about 3-4000 rounds it was done.( completely worn out) Yes I shot 30-30 a lot. Anywhere from 1500-2000 per year
Nice been thinking of getting a lever action but hard to find one these days
Sweet, I have two 30-30 rifles a Marlin " waffle top " and a Winchester " pre 64" model 94, both are a blast to shoot,
Gavin, I'd find an older Marlin or Winchester........
When I saw that a new video had dropped my first thought was will we see Guy today. Really enjoying the video's with Guy as they are more in line with the reloading that I do, I do watch them all though. Good job today.
Since it is a rifle with the mindset of tradition, I'm fond of the top eject models. If you want to get obscure, look for a Ted Williams lever rifle. It's pretty much a Winchester 94 with a few internal differences. Winchester made them for Sears back in the day.
I had one back in the day, bought from Sears for like $100 circa 1972. It did go bang and I collected a few deer with it, not up to Winchester quality but I had no problems with it and it made me a fan of lever guns to this day.
That was my first rifle. Used in 1983. I was 14. Still use it for Michigan firearm season.
I shot my 1st deer and a lot to follow with my Ted Williams.
The Ted Williams levers had minor differences from the Winchester parent. The loading gate and the elevator or lift plate were cheaper stamped and plated. The wood was usually not as nice too. Still functioned and held their accuracy. I have a Ted Williams in 32 Win Special and a Winchester in 30-30 and don't see much difference between them. I reload for both and found annealing the brass after 3 reloads extends the brass life considerably.
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I had to chuckle when you mentioned economy loading. I've been loading 30-30 ammo with the same Lee Loader since 1961. I'm still shooting the same gun as well. A Model 336 Marlin, iron sites. If I take a deer at over 80 yards it's rare and I start to imagine I'm a sniper shooter. 🙂
I love my 336. Have had it since 97. Put a Lyman receiver sight on it (#46 i believe). Shoot just fine. Using the edge of my plastic toolbox as a rest for my forward hand (not a benchrest by any means), i can consistently get groups a little over MOA with factory ammo. Haven't started loading yet, but i will. I have not tried the Hornady FTX bullets, but they may extend the range a bit. Looking forward to trying 125 gr spitzers in my Savage 340 and single loaded in the Marlin (1 in chamber, 1 in mag) to see how much flatter they shoot. I anticipate 2500-2550 fps, if i remember the load manual data correctly. The 30-30 is a great cartridge for hunting, defense, and general wood use. People need to rediscover it. There is a good reason why Winchester has sold over 6 million 94's, plus all the Mossbergs, Henrys, Marlins, store branded guns, and others. Pretty sure that more deer are still taken with 30-30 every year than any of the more "modern" cartridges, including 30-06.
I love my 30-30, mine is a marlin 336 and I highly recommend it
I want a new Ruger in 444. I have an early 70s Marlin JW micro groove in 44mag that I've used many times on deer at 100yds and under.
Hey, how about loading some 190 grain HAWKS bullets?
Nosler did it right w the one. 170
I would like to see a more specific 30-30 handloading video.
I have had great results using IMR 3031 powder and the Speer Hot Core bullet from my Marlin!
30-30 Winchester
Speer 130 grain
IMR 3031 35.5 grains
Speer 150
IMR 3031 35.0 grains
Speer 170
IMR 3031 32.0 grains
Wait for Ruger to push out the Marlins. I have a Win 94 that works just fine. If you want the quick unlock option get the Henry
Thank you guys. Fantastic
I'm not sure how many 30-30 bolt action rifles have been made, but I am familiar with both the Remington 788 and the Savage 340, both of which were offered in caliber 30-30. This would appear to offer a much greater latitude in loading ammo, as these guns did not limit the shooter to flat nose bullets. Thus, a wide array of bullet weights and types could be loaded....but not really. While the 150 and 170 grain flat/round nosed bullets could be replaced with pointed 150 and 165 grain bullets, the rifles then became single shot firearms, as the magazine boxes were barely long enough for standard factory loads. Ammo loaded with pointed bullets simply would not fit in the magazine.
One of the rifles that I regret selling back in the mid 1990s was my Winchester 94 Ranger model in 30-30 Winchester. I think I’ll have to buy me a new Winchester model 94 one day soon 😀.
How about a 45-70 next. Keep up the good work brother
Bought my 30 30 Marlin 336c at Service Merchandise in Tallahassee for 150.00.
Great rifle.
Love this video! I just recently bought a Henry H009 30-30. I always wanted a 30-30 and it is everything I hoped for. Im using cfe223 and speer hot core 150s.
I have several Marlin levers, 4 of which are 30-30's, and I would suggest you go with a used, JM Marlin, ideally pre-crossbar safety. They're classics, they're easy to tweak for an improved trigger and action, and they're great with all kinds of optics, whether it's an aperture site, a red dot, or a scope. I personally prefer a 2-7X32, 1" diameter scope, like a Vortex or Leupold, but a 1-4/1-6x also will work fine. I have a 1949 waffletop with a Williams aperture rear sight and a fiber-optic front sight and then I have them with different variations of scopes. They're a lot of fun to shoot and they're American classics that should be in the collection of any serious shooter.
My brother and I got a couple of 3030s from our grandad when he past my brother got his marlin model a and I got his 336
1949, one year into the 336 and with Ballard rifling. I have a model 1936 made in 1941 with square bolt. Saw it and had to have it.
... don't very often see anybody cleaning flash holes from both sides ... I've found many cases with a lot of flash hole burrs that if left in would interfere with the flame front from the primer to the powder charge possibly affecting accuracy
In relation to your hog hunt statement, Bill Wilson developed the 300 HAM'r as a 30-30 in the AR platform for hunting deer & hogs. Should be a good platform, just need more capacity for all the hogs. :-)
Shoulder bump is what I do too.
After my sizing.... I then run every sized case thru the action... in fact, I "slam" the action closed, so that the case's shoulder is bumped back for near zero headspace fit. That results in a perfect fitted case in THAT chamber.
Then I double check case length too. That is important for uniform bullet crimp. Marlin rifles typically allow for an overall cartridge length of 2.600"
Winchester 94 rifles use a shorter overall length of about 2.5"
BUT make sure that the follower will elevate (or lift) a cartridge of that length from the tube magazine.
These are a few things that I do when loading for 30-30s in a rear locking lever action like a Marlin or Winchester.
Dont load them too hot, because in a rear locking action, the higher the pressures, the more the cases will stretch.
I had trouble with case necks splitting on reloading after just a few loads, but the solution to this was easy, to lubricate the neck with an oil-soaked Q-tip after lubing the case. An experienced reloader friend had suggested annealing the case necks by standing them up in a pan of shallow water, heating the necks briefly with a torch and then tipping them into water but this did not cut down on splitting - maybe I had gone about it the wrong way.
Very applicable to my favorite lever gun… my heirloom Winchester 94 chambered in 32 Winchester special….. Been slaying deer in my family since 1960.
I just love to watch Guy and Travis both on here....... very interesting stuff..... I am too 46 yrs old and never shot a lever action....... Some day I will get a chance to. Both of my daughters started out hunting deer with a 30/30 (friends' gun).
I love my Marlin 30-30. Added some upgrades with some RPP goodies to give it a modern feel while still keeping that traditional look. Do a collaboration build with the RPP guys!
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This winter will be my first reloading adventure 30-30 is my starting point 170g flat nose should be fun
Marlin! Definitely! Looking for one, hard to find!!!
I have a Marlin 336w. I use IMR 4064 powder and 150 grain Hornady round nose. It is great whitetail medicine here in Pennsylvania!
In the UK here. Got a 336 30-30. We have wild boar here and mine smacks them down no issues. Home loads are 125gr Sierra flat nose hollow points. Also the 190gr SubX hornady bullets are brilliant out to 100 metres especially on the boar
You should try casting your own bullets if you handload. (I'm assuming you do because of the bullets you mentioned.) RCBS makes a mould for a flat point that casts out to about 190 grains with gas check and lube. You can drive it to 2,000 fps very safely and, out to 150 yards or so, it knocks medium game flat. Do not, however, use cast bullets in barrels with micro groove rifling.
Since you asked Gavin maybe consider buying either a nice Henry or maybe a stainless laminate Marlin might be a nice compromise for a modern shooter like yourself. Kind of a blend of old and new that way. Don't overlook the 35 Remington either as a cartridge choice.
Get a Ruger, they will have Ballard rifling. One of the 1894 in 44mag.
would be nice also. I hope it has
a 1-20 twist instead of that crazy
1-38 twist. Enjoyed the show!
Excelente video... mis abrazos siempre los acompaño desde Argentina
Winchester 94 my favorite rifle.
I’ve got a Marlin .30-30 that I’ve had since I was 14 it’s an awesome rifle. My dads Henry is a piece of art though very beautiful rifle. Depends if you care about aesthetics a little more than saving a few hundred dollars.
Your channel is so much better with diversity.
I use the Sierra 170's with 31.5 grains of W748. Really impressive accuracy for for an old Marlin lever action. IIRC they pass the Lab Radar just under 2000 fps .
i had a Winchester model 94 that was given to me years ago. i used it for hog hunting in Florida. great gun for hog hunting. i fell on hard times and had to sell a bunch of my collection. i finally got a chance to get another model 94 for my collection. took it home and put a couple rounds though it and couldnt be happier. cant wait to get it in the woods.
How accurate is that powder measure? New folks to reloading need to know about case preparation. Case preparation is the tedious part of the loading process but very important.
I like the old Winchester 94's, but the Marlin is a stronger design.
I've started making galley loads for my kids....100grain cast bullet over 4.5 grains of tite group....recoil is like a 22 but feels awesome because it's an adults rifle.
Get the Ruger and do a review on it at the same time.
My first lever gun, Marlin 30-30. Have a bunch of Leverevolution powder but can’t find the Leverevolution (Hornady FTX) bullets for it anymore.
I’m not usually a fan of LEE reloading equipment, BUT....the LEE Factory Crimp Die works fricken awesome for 30-30!!
I've never shot a 30-30 BUT 35Rem is my go to. I have a Marlin 336SC my grandfather bought in the 50s
I'd recommend a Marlin for the ese of mounting a scope if you want. I'd recommend a 22" barrel if they (Ruger) offers one (hopefully with a pistol grip), and shoot the Speer 130 grain flat tip.
(I love my Winchester 64 Deluxe Hunter, my dad's first rifle!)
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Lapua brass would help a bunch in that cartridge, a whole lot less stretch period and whole lot less trimming and of course you need to anneal the brass. Happy reloading
*A new oversized or not-yet-fit 'locking bolt' or "locking block' can tighten up your headspace... by pressing bolt group further forward. Professional grade fitting or 'professional lapping in' is usually required for the ideal fit. These are not really a drop in part. Wear, improper fitting, or over-polishing the parts can create excessive headspace which will cause excessive bulging, and case stretch, and primers backing out, etc.*
I have a Model 94 Win. in 30-30 best saddle Carbine out there . I reload the 170 gr RFN bullets, kills very well.
That short mag tube is very different. My favorite marlin has that same stock.
What are some good 1x to 2x on low end scopes to put on something like this, meant for closer woods shots. 3x is way too high for a starting power in the dense stuff in low light. I know Vortex does a strait walled version of the Crossfire Scope, but they got it wrong with it being a 3-9x40mm. Should of been something like a 2-10x40, or a 2-7x which would of made more sense. Id like to see some hunting 1-8x range that are not tactical, and meant for hunting. Bushnell might have some options, but their quality hasn't impressed me throughout the years, so they are not even on my radar.
Check out the Primary Arms 1x prism scope. It weighs 6 oz and is as small as a red dot, and comes with mounting hardware to set it up to 5 different heights. You can fit it to just about anything. They also have a 2.5 prism scope. It weighs almost a pound but the glass is amazing, it is compact and it focuses down to about 15 yards, and is under $200.
I switched my scope out for a red dot. I was having the same problem as you. I absolutely love the red dot on it and also believe I can get a shot off much quicker as well.
@@dandingfelder6763 I've thought about trying one, wonder if anyone makes a red dot with etched reticle, so even if battery quits in the field, you still can aim.
The 30-30 is the only gun my dad used for dear hunting, it is very affective. He good a deer every year some short range and others 100 to 150 yards. His gun was the Winchester 30-30. I have the Marlin 30-30 which I like better as the stock has a better grip positioning. The Wnchester stock is more straight which pounds your shoulder harder than the Marilin. A funny story is about my uncle, went hunting with us one time. He seen a nice buck he got so excited that, withi his 30-30 lever action, began with his mouth saying bag and then ejected a loaded round on the ground. He emptied his gun on the ground then ask if he hit the deer as it walked away. Everyone tiried very hard not to contain themseleves. This what is knowen as Buck Fever.
Go get a pre '64 model 94 Winchester. Lyman peep sight and a hooded front sight. It's funny how things go full circle. A new generation of shooters are discovering what folks have known for over a century, the ole 30-30 will put about anything down quickly and efficiently at reasonable ranges. Bigger is not always better. It's also been protecting homes, livestock, and people without fuss all this time as well.
Bullet design has a lot to do with w the 30-30.
Wow I just got that exact gun described. Sight and all
@@georgehayduke6717
Good for you! It’s a great combination and there’s nothing like the old 94’ in the hands.
Love those Glenfields!
I have my Dads pre 64 model 94 Winchester.. I shot my first deer with it in 1976… I load 180 grain round nose..
IMR 3031… Been loading them for 50 years.. always right on..
Love the gun.. He got it at Sears and Robucks.. still have the original Box a case it came in.. 😁
Lever guns are real cool. I like Marlins and Winchester and older style my favorite.
I took a 22 mag out and a bunch of ladies started using it. They loved that thing. They are great for new shooters