TC Carbine 327 Federal for the Evil Handloader...

[Encore64]

I've started working on an interesting small game rifle. I'd started this years ago and got sidetracked.

I'd asked Match Grade Machine to build me a 22" Tapered Barrel for a TC Contender Carbine as soon as the Single Seven became available.

My barrel was an early one for them and built on a Chrome Moly 1-16" blank.

I'd thought this would make a dandy carbine similar to the old rimfire 32s from a century ago.

Enter Missouri Bullets. I noticed they had their #3 Whitetail 135 grn FN sized .311". I found Grafs had them, so I added 2000 to the hoard.

Surprisingly, the Lee Dies load these long nosed bullets and crimp them just fine. An expected bonus to say the least.

They seat about the same depth as a XTP 100 grn and allow plenty of room for powder.

Due to the extra weight, I decided to start with 2400 instead of my traditional Unique Powder.

I won't post data, but a load well below my predicted maximum is pushing these beauties to 1500+ fps. Groups are about 1/2" at 50 yards, so I'm optimistic about longer ranges.

These bullets are Hi-Tek Coated, so no leading has occured. My goal is 1600 fps which looks very easy. But, I'll back off if accuracy deteriorates.

Tim is going to post a picture of loaded rounds which measure 1.697". More to follow about this if any are interested...

[tdbarton]

Pretty neat…

[Encore64]

Thanks Tim...

This is just another example of me going backwards. This round will be similar to the Old 32s offered by Stevens, Ballard and Winchester in the late 1800s. Ballistics are a perfect match for the Wesley Richards 300 Sherwood for those who like British Cartridges (I do).

I believe with properly constructed handloads would mimic the 32 Winchester Self-Loading.

Tried some H110/296, but noise levels went up dramatically. So, back to 2400.

Interestingly enough, energy levels climb to 357 Magnum Revolver levels quicker than you'd expect.

[jeffh]

You sir, are making it difficult for me to rationalize my charade that a 357 Mag carbine is all I'll ever need should it come down to "one gun."

The 32s are SO attractive, especially in a carbine and I have resisted thus far.

I have a LEE C309-113 RF, which drops at .313" in WW, that I corrected to a plain-base at 118 grains. It shoots amazingly in my 30-30.

If you ever think you might want to try that one, I can send a box your way, free of charge, just to see how they work out.

[jeffh]

Oct 29, 2021 15:38:49 GMT -5 Encore64 said:

......Interestingly enough, energy levels climb to 357 Magnum Revolver levels quicker than you'd expect.

But the sectional density difference between 35s and 32s of the same weight.....

Keeps getting more interesting.

[Encore64]

I'm not sure at what weight (length) bullet the 1-16" will stop stabilizing bullets. I've got some 165s for my 303 British, but that might not work.

Someone on here had one made recently and I believe it had a 1-10" twist. That would work!!!

It's just plain fun to put meat in the pot with these loads.

I've got a Ruger #1 in 7.62x39mm with a .310" Bore Groove. The evil thoughts just keep coming...

[squawberryman]

There's three types of thinking. Thinking inside the box, thinking outside the box, and this "I've got a Ruger #1 in 7.62x39mm with a .310" Bore Groove. The evil thoughts just keep coming..."

[Encore64]

The 115 grn GT Hollow Point Bullets worked well over Unique in this gun. But, lead if you push them too fast.

Lots of things to try in these guns. The TC Contender remains the king of versatility. Easy to clean too.

I'll move the target to 75 yards, adjust POI to 1" high and see how it goes.

[scotth]

Oct 29, 2021 15:47:19 GMT -5 Encore64 said:

I'm not sure at what weight (length) bullet the 1-16" will stop stabilizing bullets. I've got some 165s for my 303 British, but that might not work.

Someone on here had one made recently and I believe it had a 1-10" twist. That would work!!!

It's just plain fun to put meat in the pot with these loads.

I've got a Ruger #1 in 7.62x39mm with a .310" Bore Groove. The evil thoughts just keep coming...

Someone on here had one made recently and I believe it had a 1-10" twist. That would work!!!

that would be me that had a new barrel made and it was not long after i got it stuff hit the fan around here my dad got covid and was in the hospital i had to dig out the power of attorney paper work and take care of him the good news is he is back to normal now but deer hunting starts in 1 week i hope to get back to it after hunting season. i have a bunch components on the bench waiting for me to get back to it. so i will be fallowing this post and taking notes so please post more on your findings.

[Encore64]

Scott, thanks for posting this. I couldn't remember who it was.

I'm not sure what your intention is for your barrel. I'm an oddball that loves doing this wacky stuff where many are more modern.

As you probably noticed, I don't (or rarely) post load data. I post powder type and bullet info, but rarely the charge weight. I will be keeping notes and share the info with individuals.

I came up another half grain and got my desired 1600 fps. Accuracy remained the same. These bullets are Brn 18 and Hi-Tek Coated, so are handling the velocity fine.

[tdbarton]

Could we see the rifle as well? The modern rook rifle - I love it and look forward to seeing more about this gun/load.

[Encore64]

Pictures sent...

Many Die Hard Contender Guys will remember the Appalachian Stock available from Fox Ridge for a time. Honestly, this one will probably end up with a traditional wood stock to match the intent.

But, this one holds all sorts of goodies in the buttstock.

[tdbarton]

I asked and received.  Here’s Huey’s cool little rifle:

[Encore64]

Thanks Again Tim...

Scope is a Vortex 2-7x with a BDC Reticle. Base is a Maxim Steel, Rings are Warne Steel. Never a fan of aluminum for scope mounting.

I like the multiple crosshairs even on these low powdered rifles. Once familiar with the trajectory, it's a handy accessory.

[tdbarton]