I’ve got a couple projects in the oven this year even though Chemo made me curtail most of my load development for 6 months. There just is not enough room in the freezer to do all the experimentation I want to do. I always keep a rifle or two handy with proven success, just in case. I’m still getting over the treatment. I do not want any goat rodeos this year.
What I’m taking to deer camp this year:
Savage 99 in .308 WIN— Nothing new. This is just my go-to gun for the Opener. It did very well last year (see The Savage Speaks Again )
When Chemo loomed, I promised myself I’d make it to the stand in November, and this rifle was part of the package.
Ruger Hawkeye in 30-06-– I’m testing a new load. I shot 165 grainers for decades. This load is 150 grain Hornady IL over H4895. I received a free lifetime supply of 150 grain Interlocks a while back, and I am putting it to use
Mauser KAR 98 in 8X57 — Despite the moniker, The Mauser from Hell, this has become my safety blanket. It won’t come out of the case unless something unforeseen happens.
TC Compass in 7mm-08 — Right as Thompson Center was going under, I snagged this on clearance. It sports a Boyd’s walnut stock. This is my new favorite.
Okay, so what ISN’T coming?
I have a whole bunch of projects that did not make it to the final cut. As I said, I don’t want any goat rodeos, and putting a couple of deer down within easy reach of the truck is going to be my main goal. There are several projects I’m leaving home.
Pedersoli Brown Bess — You would think that for all the hours I put into this behemouth, I’d be hankering to have a pay-off. Truth is, I’m happy to leave it home this year and not be bothered lugging it around.
Rem 7600 in 35 Whelen –– The Whelenizer is going to have to wait another year to be resurrected. I have a new 180 grain load that I worked up. (See New Load for the Whelenizer)
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