.30 Herrett (cast-bullet loads)

.30 Herrett (cast-bullet loads)

The .30 Herrett proved to be an excellent cartridge not only for jacketed hunting bullets, but also for cast-bullet shooting applications. Developed by Steve Herrett and Bob Milek during the early 1970s for the Thompson/Center Contender pistol, the cartridge was based on the .30-30 Winchester case shortened and reshaped for greater efficiency in short handgun barrels. Its moderate powder capacity and excellent accuracy characteristics made it especially well suited for cast-bullet experimentation.

Cast-bullet loads offered several advantages to .30 Herrett shooters, including reduced recoil, lower operating costs, and excellent accuracy at moderate velocities. Many Contender owners discovered that properly sized and lubricated cast bullets could deliver outstanding performance for target shooting, silhouette competition, and small-game hunting while also minimizing barrel wear and conserving jacketed bullet supplies. The cartridge’s efficient design allowed cast bullets to perform exceptionally well without requiring excessive powder charges.

Handloader Issue #83 explored cast-bullet loading techniques for the .30 Herrett, focusing on proper bullet hardness, sizing, and powder selection for reliable accuracy in handgun-length barrels. Medium-burning powders were often favored because they provided stable ignition and smooth pressure curves at lower velocities. Since the .30 Herrett relies heavily on proper shoulder positioning for headspacing in many Contender chambers, careful brass preparation and consistent case dimensions remained important even when using reduced cast-bullet loads.

The .30 Herrett’s versatility helped solidify its reputation as one of the most successful specialty handgun cartridges of its era. Whether loaded with jacketed hunting bullets or economical cast projectiles, the cartridge demonstrated impressive flexibility and efficiency in the Thompson/Center Contender platform. Decades after its introduction, it continues to hold a respected place among dedicated handgun hunters, silhouette shooters, and cast-bullet enthusiasts.

Source: Handloader Issue #83 – January, 1980