Outbackshooter, congradulations on rifle. I just got one about a month ago. I love the Optima. I tried lots of diffrent loads here is what I ended up using . I use the Powbelts areo tips in the 348 grain weight. I got the triple 7 ffg in the loose powder I get the best shooting results with 80 grains of loose powder. I tried lots of loads and powerbelts. Its what works best for me. I also undo the plastic base at the bottom of the powerbelt and lube the stem of the powerbelt with bore lube, so the base of the powerbelt is sure to realease. I do that with every pack of powerbelts. I hope this has helped you, I use the Winchester 209 primers Have fun!!!!