338-06 A-Square loads

[bsterns]

Has anyone had any experience reloading for this caliber? I do not have a chrony but I have read that a velocity of 2900 fps could be attained using 57.3 gr. of Varget with the Hornady 200 gr. interlock 3310 bullet. That is what I have loaded. I get good groups with it. I shot a Merino Ram with it and the ram did not know what hit him. When the guide examined the entry wound he said that it was a hot load because there were powder burns on the wool near the bullet hole. Since it was a 175 yard shot I was skeptical. He said he was positive it was powder burns. It did look like it could be but, at that distance, is that possible? Sounds unrealistic to me. Please respond if anyone knows any good loads for this caliber or if powder can stay with a bullet for longer distances.