Has anyone loaded a 7-30 Waters with the 162 gr Hornady bullets? I used some today to fireform some brass, and discovered they are very accurate. ! inch at 50 yards and 2-2 1/2 inch at 100 yards, and I'm a lousy pistol shot.
I was in need of fireforming some brass and didn't have any corn meal or wax, so I figured I could get rid of these bullets since they didn't shoot in my 7 mag and fireform brass at the same time. I loaded them with W748 and H4895 about half way between starting loads and max loads. just wondered if anyone has tried them and how they worked on game?

I don't have a 7-30 but I would find out from Hornady what the intended impact velocity range on these bullets is. You couldn't be starting them at much over 2000fps, you might not have the velocity to get them to open up past 100 yards, if that far.

My Hornady manual suggests a "useful velocity range" of 2300fps - 3000fps for the 7mm / 162gr. bullet. Odds are, zero expansion on critters. Maybe if you hit a big pig right in the shoulder, dunno.....

I tried some Barnes 160gr XLCs in my 7-30 and wasn't impressed. The groups are fine, but the drop is huge. I didn't even try them at 200 yds. I don't think they were going fast enough to expand at the muzzle, let alone at 200yds. Alas, I don't have a chronograph, yet...

The short barrel really needs lighter bullets. I stick to 120-130 gr bullets for the most part. I do shoot 140gr Beartooth bullets in a local "cast bullet" competition (you should see the looks when I register with a pistol for a competition that is expected/intended for rifles... :D ) but that is for paper-punching! I wouldn't go in to the field with a bullet over 130gr in a 14" 7-30. But that is just my preference...

Found the same thing with my 7 Int Rimmed (forerunner of the Waters). Have not tried them on game. Prefer the 130 Sierra Single Shot for sure expansion. Sure shoot accurately, though a bit more recoil.