RELOADING
The 9.3x62 Mauser
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The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
| 9.3x62 Mauser Load Data | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BULLET | BULLET WEIGHT (gr.) | POWDER | PRIMER | CASE | CHARGE WEIGHT (grs.) | |
The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
| 9.3x62 Mauser Load Data | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BULLET | BULLET WEIGHT (gr.) | POWDER | PRIMER | CASE | CHARGE WEIGHT (grs.) | |
The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
| 9.3x62 Mauser Load Data | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BULLET | BULLET WEIGHT (gr.) | POWDER | PRIMER | CASE | CHARGE WEIGHT (grs.) | |
The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
| 9.3x62 Mauser Load Data | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BULLET | BULLET WEIGHT (gr.) | POWDER | PRIMER | CASE | CHARGE WEIGHT (grs.) | |
The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
| 9.3x62 Mauser Load Data | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BULLET | BULLET WEIGHT (gr.) | POWDER | PRIMER | CASE | CHARGE WEIGHT (grs.) | |
The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
| 9.3x62 Mauser Load Data | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BULLET | BULLET WEIGHT (gr.) | POWDER | PRIMER | CASE | CHARGE WEIGHT (grs.) | |
The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
;The 9.3x62 Mauser cartridge was developed by Otto Bock in Berlin in 1905 to provide an economical, yet powerful alternative to the big British double rifles of the day for African hunting. In this role it succeeded admirably, and the round was widely used on the Dark Continent, where it earned a fine reputation as a medium- to big-game cartridge.
The relatively inexpensive bolt guns turned out in Europe made sense to the African farmers trying to eke out a living against the ravages of nature in the veldt. In power, the 9.3x62 compares favorably with the .375 H&H Magnum.
The 9.3mm bore size is moderately popular in the United States. Currently, the selection of 9.3x62 rifles is limited to several models, each of the Steyr-Mannlicher and CZ bolt actions. Our test rifle was a CZ 550 American with a 23.6-inch barrel. The single-set trigger was a delight to use, and the rifle was very accurate. With a 4X scope from a benchrest, no load averaged more than 1.3 inches, and most came in right at an inch for five shots at 100 yards. Ballistic uniformity was also excellent, with most standard deviations running in single digits.
Reloading the 9.3x62 presents no problem at all. We used RCBS full-length dies, but they are produced by several companies. Properly head-stamped cases are readily available, or one can take the expedient approach and neck up ubiquitous .30-06 or .35 Whelen cases and trim them to 2.441 inches (62mm). To ensure proper headspacing, it is a good idea to neck up cases to a larger caliber, like .375, then size down to 9.3mm a bit at a time to make sure the newly formed shoulder is a slight "crush fit" in your rifle's chamber.
A lot of companies make .366-inch bullets, and there is a good selection available to the reloader. Some are pretty high-tech, ranging from 232 to 320 grains.
The 286-grain A-Square is produced in three forms, and Barnes makes its no-lead Triple Shock-X Bullets in 250- and 286-grain weights. Brand new is Hornady's "Recoil Proof" 286-grain Spire Point. Lapua offers the 286-grain Mega, Norma has its Oryx bonded bullets in 232- and 286-grain weights, and Swift's A-Frame comes in 250- and 300-grain. Woodleigh lists 250- and 286-grain numbers, and for a real heavyweight, consider the Woodleigh 320-grain Weldcore.
The '06-size 9.3x62 case calls for standard primers, which worked perfectly in our test loads; magnum primers aren't needed.
The loads shown in our table are representative of what 9.3x62 reloads can accomplish. Several medium-burning-rate powders did very well in the 9.3. The standout powders with all bullets were IMR 3031 and Reloder 15.
With the 232-grain Norma Oryx, 56.0 grains of either IMR 3031 or H322 provided speeds of more than 2,500 fps, with muzzle energies around 3,200 ft-lbs. The 250-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting was one of the first 9.3mm bullets specifically designed for longer ranges. At velocities greater than 2,500 fps and MOA accuracy, it's a winner. For all-around effectiveness, Nosler's new 250-grain AccuBond picks up where the Ballistic Tip Hunting leaves off. This sleek boattail has a ballistic coefficient of .482, which makes for a flat trajectory and a lot of downrange energy, and it is very accurate. The top velocity of 2,510 fps and 3,501 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with 56.0 grains of Varget make for a potent hunting combination.
While not quite as efficient, the 270-grain Speer Semi-Spitzer has a BC of .361 and also proved quite accurate. With either 56.0 grains of IMR-3031 or 58.0 grains of Reloder 15, velocities were 2,365 fps or more and muzzle energy was around 3,350 ft-lbs. Actually, loads with any of the 250- and 270-grain bullets sighted in at two inches high at 100 yards give a very practical hunting trajectory.
For moose, big bears and such, the 286-grain bullets are a better choice. The new Hornady 286-grain Spire Point Recoil Proof over 57.0 grains of Reloder 15 zipped along at 2,343 fps, making nice, round .98-inch groups, and the muzzle energy is a blistering 3,486 ft-lbs. The Nosler Partition of the same weight would also be a great choice. Either of these bullets would be excellent at long range as well. The Hornady has a BC of .354, and the Partition boasts a BC of .496, so they don't give up much range to their lighter cousins.
While the mega-magnums are all the rage these days, the fine old 9.3x62 Mauser is still alive and well after more than a century, just doing its job--flattening critters around the world and not breaking the shooter's shoulder or bank account while doing it.
WARNING: The loads shown here are safe only in the guns for which they were developed. Neither the author nor InterMedia Outdoors Inc. assumes any liability for accidents or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this data.
| 9.3x62 Mauser Load Data | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BULLET | BULLET WEIGHT (gr.) | POWDER | PRIMER | CASE | CHARGE WEIGHT (grs.) | |
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