Loads for Vintage Model 94 .30-30

[RazorRunner]

Upfront and clear - I'm new to reloading.
I have a Model 94 from 1912 (inherited from Grandpa).
Modern loads are too hot, accuracy after the first shot gets worse.

Looking to reload with Sierra 125gr HPFN with IMR 3031. I have a reloading manual but it doesn't list this combination.

I need the starting powder measure for this load. Ultimately, I'd like my teenagers to be able to use the rifle without blasting their shoulder with the heavier weight and hotter loads from the factory. End goal is whitetail at close range (within 100yrds).

Been trying to scour the internet for info it's all over the place and lots of sources are referencing more modern loads (hotter) or much heavier bullets.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

 

[Steve300xcw]

 

[RazorRunner]

Steve300xcw Appreciate it. Gives a starting point. let's see where this goes!

 

[Reece123]

hogdon has load data for subsonic and reduced recoil loads for 30-30

 

[deadwolf]

I shoot modern loads in my rifle from 1909. If your accuracy is dropping off I don’t think it’s because the load is “too hot”.


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[RazorRunner]

I've bench tested the 94 with several different factory rounds... Federal, Hornady, Remington and Winchester.
Federal's were the most accurate but after about 4-5 rounds the barrel started getting really warm and the spread farther apart.
If I wait about two minutes between shots, the group stays fairly tight. I open to ideas, but seems like the factory loads are a bit much for this gun.
Regardless, I'm looking to make some plinking loads with a bit less kick for my 11 yr old.

 

[Steve300xcw]

Do a search for paco kelly and accurizing lever guns. Some interesting info out there.

Also that'd be a badass rig for an 11 year old!

 

[deadwolf]

Is your 94 a rifle or carbine? I mean really you should post a picture for us Winchester guys to drool over


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[Slickhill]

Trailboss under a 170gr cast bullet is the ultimate fun plinking load for 30/30s. You can use other pistol powders too but TB is the safer option. Using the 70 percent method specified by Hodgdon for TB loads you’ll end up with 22LR speeds, noise, and recoil. Very accurate in both of my 30/30s with properly sized bullets.

I’d look at something like that for plinking loads for the kids and just use factory or equivalent loads for hunting. The big ammunition companies have had deer killing 30/30 ammo dialed in pretty good for over 100 years now.