9.3x74R with 320 grain Oryx

[Mountaineer]

Has anyone hunted buffalo or hippo with a 9.3x74R? If so, what bullet did you choose and why? I purchased a 9.3x74R not long ago knowing it needed regulated. I have shot a few different bullets out of it and I’m trying to decide which bullet to load and will have Ken Owen’s regulate the barrels to that load. I have not even decided to use plains game bullets or something I could use where permitted for buff. Thanks

 

[Hedge774]

I have not, but you've made me think. Do Ruger No. 1's need regulating as well? I guess I assumed being a Mack truck falling block action would be safe.

 

[odonata]

I have not, but you've made me think. Do Ruger No. 1's need regulating as well?

I know based on your posts in the classifieds that you recently bought a Ruger No. 1 in this chambering. When using the word "regulating" in the context of the original post, what the OP is talking about is a double rifle and having it "regulated" so bullets from both barrels hit within an acceptably small area at a particular distance. This is accomplished by adjusting the weight & speed of the projectile or getting a gunsmith to physically adjust the barrels to work well with a desired load.

So there's nothing special you need to do with your new rifle because of this particular round since you only have one barrel. All you have to do is adjust the sights if you change ammo. Since the OP knew his double needed to be adjusted to group better, now is the time to decide on a load that he wants it regulated for.

Historically, I think most double rifles in 9.3x74r were often regulated to shoot a 286gr bullet at 2360 fps as a common standard. If you look at Federal or Hornady's rounds, that's what they're set for. Norma's two rounds have 285gr at 2329 fps and S&B's goes 2313. So they're all real close.

 

[Hedge774]

Thank you! Hahaha! I'm thinking of pressure tolerances. I learn something valuable on here everyday.

 

[odonata]

Thank you! Hahaha! I'm thinking of pressure tolerances. I learn something valuable on here everyday.

If you’re not familiar with double rifles, it’s a somewhat vague term that doesn’t convey what is being discussed very well. But once you know, it’s easy to understand the question being asked. There’s a lot of experienced hunters hanging out here. I regularly learn a lot of new stuff too.

 

[Aussie_Hunter]

I haven't used the 9.3X74R to hunt buffalo but I have used my 9.3X62 on buffalo. I handload 320 grain Woodleighs, can still achieve good velocity with the heavy for calibre bullet and the 320 grain 9.3 calibre bullets have a very high SD which helps to provide good penetration.