The Late .257 Roberts ~ The Greatest All-Round American Rifle!

[@jamessutherland5107]

Right now my .257 Robert's A.I. lives in the Carolinas with my daughters family. I miss it, but my Whelen keeps me company

[@jonsmith3574]

I listen to this before going to sleep. Like grandfather reading me a bedtime story. I mean that in the best way!

[@goru426]

Funny thing, but I did the same several times!

[@realmetis8002]

@@goru426 same lol

[@voyagingkanu8545]

I do it too

[@uralbob1]

I've done the same many times. I love this guy!

[@phillycheesetake]

Y'all need to call your dads.

[@glendamathews8279]

My father used one and I use it as a teenager. My brother inherited it. My husband was working out of town and found one for me in a pawn shop. I love this gun!!!! I have taken many deer, hogs and turkeys with it! Thanks for your video! I also love my 22 hornet!

[@jaybailleaux630]

I fell in love with the 257 Roberts when an oil field worker in south Texas brush country tested my marksmanship. He thought I was a tinhorn city dude. He pulled out a beat up Remington 722 out of his truck tool box. It had a low mounted steel Weaver scope with extra fine cross hairs on it. 3x or 4x power. He set up a beer can about 100 yards. I free handed it and hit the can. It surprised him as much as it surprised me.

[@WalterWild2]

I have a 721 in 30-06

[@a12282]

Around 50 years ago as a young man in Oregon I had an old Remington rolling block rifle with a four power Weaver scope that was chambered 257 Roberts. I hand loaded 75 and 87 grain ammo and it wasn't until years and many, many other rifles later that I came to understand that that rifle was absolutely superb in terms of accuracy, ballistic performance, and modest recoil. I miss it to this day.

[@jamesshedd752]

This gentleman is such a wealth of useable knowledge... I can listen to him day and night ..if you are interested in rifles then he is the man

[@ORflycaster]

I just discovered your channel, and have already watched/listened to four videos. THIS ONE touched my heart however. The .257 Roberts is my favorite cartridge (and my first as a kid), and your appreciation of this wonderful cartridge, and willingness to take the time to honor it with a 27 minute video makes me an instant fan of your channel. I've subscribed, and am now playing catch-up..............your content is "old school" in a modern internet age of noise and chaff. Keep up the great work sir.

[@agreattanker2303]

Captain --- what I really appreciate about your videos is how you weave a (very relevant) historical framework into the discussion. Thank you.

[@jamesshedd752]

Well said and true

[@kevinhorsley4633]

Hello / Captain.. hope you're doing well and I enjoy all your inspirational videos, just picked up a Winchester Model 70, Pre-64 era in 257 Roberts . I really enjoyed this video and happy to keep this cartridge alive in the Michigan woods for a long time coming. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and I hope you have a wonderful many more years to share so much more with your subscribers, I am one of many Thank you for your service as well. God Bless.

[@GunBlue490]

That's quite a find! Enjoy. God bless!

[@sammylacks4937]

I grew up reading Jack O'Conner s an and Jim Carmichael s articles. Now its this man I learn from. I m just thankful for them all. Thank you so much.

[@terryhenry8243]

Thanks gunblue. I won't argue with you about all the history and details of the 257 Roberts. More than anything I only wanted to point out that Remington did build this chambering on a long action even though I know it was a very limited production. Thank you for the education!! You obviously have a great love of firearms and all the history behind them. Really appreciate your work, thank you again. Terry

[@coffee637]

Interesting video. I inherited my Grandma’s model 70 in 257 Roberts. The search for ammo and/or reloader continues.

[@redtobertshateshandles]

Spend the money and get it running.

[@kevina4276]

Thank you so much for your commentary on the 257 roberts. I messed up and should have bought a browning lever in 257 many years ago and always regretted it. Now I'm seriously considering the Winchester. My local shop has a lightweight that I fell in love with today. Thanks again. I love the history.

[@GunBlue490]

That lightweight was a special order production for the Shot Show. Mine shoots with fabulous accuracy. It'll always be a valuable gun, never produced in normal production.

[@aberhan]

This is extremely interesting. I have owned a 257 Roberts for over 30 years and was not aware of this history. I was originally drawn to this cartridge by using a friend’s rifle. I liked the superiority of this cartridge over the 243 and 6mm which I already had. Recognizing the inherent flaw of the Remington model having the bullets seated too deeply in the case, I customized my rifle, a Ruger model 77 by having an additional 3/16 inch of free bore and softening the trigger to under 3 pounds, before I ever fired a round. The result was a a nice crisp shooting rifle that made maximum use of the case capacity. This rifle has taken game of all sizes with the emphasis being on shot placement. Truly an all around cartridge, and still a favourite in my collection. Unfortunately like another great cartridge the 6.5 X 55 Swede, it has never really caught on, even here in North America where it was born. Thank you for your insight into this often overlooked cartridge and piece of American history.

[@tazdog4528]

I worked with a fellow back in the mid 80's who swore by the 257 Roberts. He would use it every year on anything from varmits to deer always said his deer were 1 shot kills. I always wanted 1 but could never find i rifle chamber in this round. I have always been a 30-06 fan myself but always love other rounds and have bought guns chambered in different calibers over the years. I really don't think their a such thing as a bad caliber just depends on what you use them for. I have always considered myself pretty inform when comes to guns and differn't chamberings rounds ect. I have been studing the subject and hunting since i was a young kid all my life, but you sir definately have me beat by a long way. I love watching your video's seems like i learn something i didnt no quite abit. You no if you were to ever write books and publish your vast amount of knowledge you could make a small fortune. I for 1 am very greatful that instead you make these viedo's and put them here on youtube for the public to see and learn from. Most would charge a fortune for the information you put out for free i for 1 greatly appreicate it.

[@michaelmenser2405]

⁸

[@arniegudgeon570]

257 Roberts in Ruger Ultralight is one of my favorite guns

[@billhartman150]

I have a .257 Roberts, I have taken white tail, mule deer. I have also taken elk at at fairly close range. I inherited this rifle from my dad, and I love it! Dad knew what he was doing when he bought this rifle.

[@TurninOnTulsaTime]

Thank you, sir, for your wonderful videos. You have a thoughtful, studied and balanced approach to firearms history and a comfortable teaching manner. I share your views on the incomparable 257 Roberts, my favorite round, fast , flat, accurate. I have a Cooper that's a real tack driver and a pleasure to shoot. I have a real appreciation of the classic cartridges, 270 Win, the 7x57, the 35 Whelen all wonderfully explained in your videos. Congratulations on 6 years. Keep em coming. All the best.

[@danielsteiner7634]

I was lucky enough to buy a Mauser M98 rifle years ago which was converted to 257 Roberts. It was from a guy I worked with I got the reloading dies and around 100 rounds of ammo for $125. Beautiful gun with birds-eye stock. I still remember the first time I pulled the trigger. I love this rifle :-) I still have this thing and it has always been my favorite.

[@justsomeguy5544]

I got a custom made .257 roberts made out of a 1939 mauser action and what a great combo hit hurt the pocket but well worth it.

[@alannapartin4728]

big ring or small??

[@russellkeeling9712]

GunBlue490 is refreshing to listen to. There are so many videos in which fact is less important than emotion when it comes to firearms. Lots of misleading information from many but this is fact and I always learn something.

[@mikeh7708]

Traded my grandfather for my 257. Old rifle still shooting a 1 inch group at 150 yards the last time I shot it. One of the best cartridges ever.

[@easttexan2933]

WOW !! Was your grandmother ok with that? Did she have any input. I can understand your wanting a fine hunting rifle but who on earth would want an old wore out grandfather?

[@bucketlistbeginner]

I shoot a .243 but my all time dream gun, when I was reloading at 15,,,, I really wanted a .257 Roberts with an Ackley improved cylinder. My Dad told me it was very popular until the .243. I was born and raised in Nevada, and it was great for rockchucks , coyotes ,jackrabbits, and back then, some very big mule deer. I keep telling my wife I'm gonna build one, now I have two grandsons, and I figure I can make it happen. Now I usually shoot my dads 25/06 he had that back in the days people would tell me I was wrong, it must be a 30/06 lol.....thanks for the great videos

[@GunBlue490]

The 257 Roberts, when loaded for modern guns, is so close to the Ackley version that there is no appreciable difference. The Roberts was always constrained to ridiculously low industry SAAMI pressure standards, but SAAMI never sets standards for wildcats, so Mr. Ackley had a field day without that handicap. Even factory +P loads are conservative, and operate at far lower pressures than the 6mm Remington, which is the same exact 7x57mm case. The most important thing is to simply have a long action that will allow for correct overall length and powder capacity. My current Model 70 Winchester, made several years ago, easily achieves within 50 fps of Ackley velocities, with fabulous accuracy. That's less than 10 yards of range, but the standard is usually more accurate, which is a far greater advantage. Most boxes of ammunition have greater variation! Ballistic laboratories never found worthwhile advantages to Ackley chamberings in other calibers, and the large advantage they found with the Roberts was in pre- +P days. It's no big deal anymore. The 243 is a terrific cartridge, but it's not in the same class as the Roberts, which has greater frontal area, and can handle bullets 20 grains heavier.

[@boriscook6817]

GunBlue490 and yet the 243 is given credit for the 257 Roberts demise

[@larrywilson5301]

Been using the 257 Robert's for 30 years if and on. Got 7 of my kinkolks hooked on it as well. We all agree it's about the best whitetail deer cartridge for our use. I've always been a 270 man, along with a bunch of other calibers however I've taken my best bucks with a 257,with a 100 gr Sierra btsp. Never had it fail. Dropped em right there. I enjoy watching . Your videos,keep it up. Thank you sir.

[@srennielsen7024]

I can hear how much you lowe the .257 Roberts. I can honestly say that I am feeling exactly the same with my 6,5(.264)x 55 SM. I am sorry that the .257 Roberts dissappers from the US market. I am sure, that you with your knowledge, will admit that these two cartridges are twins, copy or not, the 6,5 x 55 SM emerged 30 years earlier. Best regards !! Søren Nielsen, Denmark

[@michaelblatney21]

When I was 12 years old back in 1964 my Dad traded an old set of golf clubs and one of my old bicycles for my first deer rifle. It is a Remington model 722 257 roberts. I still have it today and it is my go to rifle when hunting deer. The last time I had her out was in the Hill Country of Texas in December 2017 where I shot a 10 point buck and a 240 lb. hog within the first 30 minutes of the hunt. When I took her out on my first hunt in 1964 I shot a 9 point biggest bodied deer I have shot to this day. She has never failed me. I now own 3 of them and will probably buy several more. My 3 sons will inherit them. This became my caliber and it is very accurate! I can hit a can at 400 yards.

[@justsomeguy5544]

Michael Blatney I shot a 616lb black bear with a 257 Roberts I love this caliber

[@kathyskipper6903]

I enjoyed the video very much. I purchased a Browning Micro Medallion in 257 Roberts in 1984. I harvested many Mule Deer with the rifle. A few years ago I experienced a problem with the Rifle. The bullets started tumbling causing massive damage to the deer. I have only shot Federal Premium 120 Nolser factory ammunition. I contacted Federal and was told the bullet manufacturing had moved to China. At this point I am not using the rifle out of fear of the problem continuing. The rifle is in very good condition and no damage to the crown. Thanks Steve

[@raymondville]

I own a 1957 Winchester Model 70 in .257 Roberts - great rifle

[@fdmackey3666]

Back around 1965 a friend and co-worker of my Dad's inherited three long guns and some money from his Grandfather. One of those long guns was a custom built .257 Roberts (P.O. Ackley cobbled it together) another was a very nice off the shelf .270 Winchester. Dad's friend used some of the inheritance money to have a rifle built by Mr. Ackley. That rifle was and remains to this day the only rifle I have ever seen or handled that was chambered in .257 Ackley and I'm not sure, even now, exactly what the difference is between the two .257s if the truth be known. Mr. Carnes was a shooter and avid hunter and had several excellent rifles and only the good Lord knows how many shotguns, at his disposal. But of all the rifles of various calibers, both factory and "wildcat", he almost always chose the .257 Roberts for his "big game" hunting. Big game being defined as anything smaller than a moose. but at least the size of a Southern white tail deer. This video brought back memories of a good man who served as a great example of what a hunter should be as well as memories of a absolutely beautiful rifle chambered in what even back then, as boy and later teenager, I recognized as a superb hunting round that deserved, and still deserves more attention, than it gets today.

[@GunBlue490]

FD Mackey The Ackley chambering has a sharper shoulder and slightly greater powder capacity than the original parent case. Unlike most Ackley chamberings that give only modest gains, his Roberts improvement provides approximately 200 + feet per second improvement over the original commercial version, and about 100 over the fairly standard now +P. You may always safely fire a standard cartridge in an Ackley chamber, which will create the improved case, though the 257 Ackley Improved is now commercially loaded, if you can locate them. It's a good round, though in practice, the both are peas in a pod that no game will care about.

[@charleshuyck6641]

The 7x57 did father the absolute best cases for cartridge's ,i.e., the 3006 and 308 class. The latter have reached perfection and do not need +P. There is a lot of 6mm and 6.5 mm competition now but the 2506 is gaining more and more ground all my friends out west have em. I still cling to the 308 and 3006 and occasional 7mm mag. I do own a 257 Bob and a 270 win but have conceded to the times.

[@russelder9743]

great video--------my biggest rifle mistake( Im 62yo) was trading my rem. model 722 in 257 roberts. I loved that rifle but not being a reloader I couldn't afford the ammo which was hard to find, sometimes it was 60.00 a box and that took the fun out of it. After listening to you I think the rifle is better off in its new home as the guy I traded with does reload. As always thanks for the education.

[@felixvinogradov6415]

A terrific piece, once again, GunBlue. Looked for over three years to find a Ruger #1 in .257 Roberts without decimating my gun fund. Found it. Loaded a 100 grain Barnes TTSX for her. Worked like a champ that it is. Next, it will be tested on coyotes unless I find a .222 Remington of which you spoke also. GBU and GBA!

[@felixvinogradov6415]

GunBlue, I forgot to cite Colonel Townsend Whelen on this superb cartridge. On page 169 of his book, Why Not Load Your Own! he states:"I think this is one of the very best cartridges made, particularly for the handloader, who desires a cartridge heavy enough for deer, sheep, goat, and antelope, and at the same time it is excellent for varmint shooting." He further cites how it was handicapped and how to get around it. The rifle he cited to do that...Winchester Model 70. Townie and you would have gotten along pretty well.

[@JayJay3Fifty7]

I am glad I found your channel. I have been watching many of your older videos and have enjoyed them very much. I've had my Remington 700 Classic 257 Roberts for about 20 years now. It was one of those distributor specials; walnut stock, matte stainless 22" barrel. I paired it with a matte silver Leupold Vari X III 2.5-8x36. Whitetails, feral pigs and yotes have fallen to it. Hornady used to make ammunition in their Custom line for the 257 Roberts; 117gr BTSP that my rifle (under 1 MOA @ 100yards) and I liked very much. The great thing about that rifle, scope and ammo combo was when I shot whitetails in the thoracic autonomic plexus it would make a pinky sized hole on entry side and a quarter sized hole on the exit side and drop the deer inside 10 yards of where it stood; as far out as 165yards. When I shot coyotes with that combo, if I placed the shot in the coyotes chest (facing me) it made a pinky sized hole and no exit, which was great for fur recovery. I was a happy man until Hornady quit making the load and I ran out. I'm currently reloading 90gr Sierra BlitzKings, 102gr Lehigh Defense Controlled Chaos, 120gr Speer Jacketed SPBT, 100gr Nosler E-tip and 115gr Nosler BT. I'm under the impression that if I want to take a whitetail down past 300yards the Speer 120gr Speer Jacketed SPBT is the way to go. One spot I hunt in Eula Texas, around 5-5:30 PM, the whitetails will pop out of the mesquite thick and into the sendero; frequently presenting 300-500 yard shots. It is a spot and stalk place I hunt and can not put up a blind. I can not position myself closer without being discovered and I never know exactly where they pop out. I can not make my way down there without spooking or going the long way for loosing day light. I've never taken the shot, but have wanted to. I've been practicing out to 500 yards with the Bob and I think the 120gr Speer Jacketed SPBT bullet is soft enough to expand properly at that distance. If I get out there again I'm going to do it.

[@GunBlue490]

You might want to try the Nosler 115 grain Partition. It has the same sectional density and ballistic coefficient as the classic 130 grain 270 Winchester, and will provide excellent expansion. Nosler's velocity at 2,800 fps is typically conservative for the cartridge, which is closer to 2,950 in mine with very reasonable pressures, using H-4831.

[@JayJay3Fifty7]

@@GunBlue490 Thank you! I'm going to order some of those this weekend. I have IMR 4350 on hand and a few other powders. My rifle seems to like loads with IMR 4350 pushing the copper and lead pills.

[@fedguy9182]

Thank you for another interesting and educational video. My wife recently obtained one her father's rifles chambered in .257 Roberts. He was a great believer in that cartridge for Missouri Whitetail deer. I need to have a gun smith look over the gun since it didn't have the greatest of care for a number of years after he passed way.

[@michaeledwards5115]

Fed Guy

[@Edgy01]

Wayne, my father, the Maniac, bought our mother a featherweight Winchester Model 70 in 257 Roberts, for her use when hunting along with him. That was back around 1962. After mom died I gave it to my sister who married an avid Hunter. Within a year or two she bagged her first deer with it one Fall, coupled with a serious scope.

[@stephenwhittier6439]

I love my .257 bob ! I’ve shot a lot of game with it. Love the 603 !

[@outdoordauber]

I got a Ruger M77 tang safety in 257 for my high school graduation present. Had money down on a 243, but bought the 257 instead. GREAT decision!! Got a 243 years later and love it too, but I'm so glad I got that 257 while they were still available.

[@cgirl111]

The story of this cartridge sounds a like like the history of the 10mm pistol round. Neutered by the commercial ammunition companies.

[@tt600pch]

I believe the Roberts my Dad bought was in 1947, shortly after he came home from Uncle Sam's paid vacation to Korea. (drafted). Dad came home to his father selling all his guns. He bought a 270 and had bad luck with deer going down. (My brother felt the ammunition probably played into the bad experience.) Dad bought the 722 Remington and used it exclusively with great success until the mid 60's.(he picked up a 721 in 30-06). Maybe my older brothers beginning to hunt figured in, I never asked Dad why he went with the 06. I shot my first deer with his Roberts in 1976. I used it until 1978 when I bought an 06. My older brother inherited Dad's Roberts. I bought a 700 classic in 257 Roberts for my wife in 1985. She was good for a deer every year and killed a bull elk one year. I shot a few deer with it and a bull as well. I found another 722 in a Roberts and picked it up a couple years ago. I will likely use it this year. 100 grain spitzer handloads just like Dad's.

[@lancewenmohs3081]

Blessed to own two rifles chambered in 257 Roberts: 1) a Remington Model 760 (pump action) from the 1950s; and 2) a Cooper Model 54 (bolt action) Jackson Hunter

[@TheReloadingPress]

Thank you sir. Great insight on this cartridge. I am working on a .257 Roberts build right now.

[@paulsimmons5726]

I found one of the 2012 Winchester 257 Roberts Shot Show models today in a local pawnshop topped with a Leupold VX3 3.5-10x50. It's a 99% rig and they threw in a box of Winchester 117 +P's. (I just watched this video again and chuckled about the +P's comment.) This was a pure case of the owner and me discussing my 7x57 Fwt and he said, "Oh, I've got an odd caliber Winchester right here... Yeah, it's a 257 Roberts!" I looked at it and made him an offer of $750 out the door and left with a virtually perfect Winchester 70 in 257 Roberts. I've found your videos to be exceptionally well thought out and plain fun to watch; sometimes, they're a bit inspirational. My gun safe may need to be replaced soon. Take care!

[@GunBlue490]

Nice find! Mine is without question one of the most accurate out-of-the-box rifles I have ever owned, which required absolutely no changes, other than a lighter trigger pull adjustment. Only my Tikka .222 Remington did better, as-is. The glass bedding is superb, and the Featherweight barrel shoots as fine as any factory barrel I have ever owned, in any weight. A couple of months ago, I fired its full capacity, rapid fire from the bench with 100 grain Sierra Match into slightly less than 3/4 inch, center to center. If you handload, you'll find that there's a world of bullets out there for it, from 75 grain up to 120, and they all stabilize beautifully.

[@t_winn1618]

I have the Winchester model 70 xtr 257 Roberts it’s great for deer iv shot a elk with it to!

[@ReloaderJoe]

I was looking at one of those 2012 Winchester Model 70 Featherweights in .257 at a pawn shop this week, they're asking $1250 for it!

[@paulsimmons5726]

@@ReloaderJoe Ouch!

[@zachchurchill6709]

I also have the Winchester 257 xrt featherweight traded it for a Japanese A5 12 rifle was new in the box one of the best trade I ever made

[@billmccullough777]

I was lucky to find a custom built 257 Roberts on a Mauser action. Probably built in the '60s. What a great little rifle. Ammo is scarce, so I bought a box or two every time I saw it. Most of what I see lately is +P, but gunsmiths have told me that Mauser action was plenty strong enough for it. I have gravitated to lever actions (35 Rem & 358 Win for black bears) in my old age. Hopefully I can have my grandson using the Roberts alongside me in the deer woods, or even for whistle pigs. Tradition!

[@johncormier646]

You're videos often cost me money! Case in point. "The 99 Savage. An elegant Savage." On the hunt again!

[@RogerSnell]

I've been wanting a 257 Roberts for a long time and now you're making me think I need one. It looks like I won't find one very cheap and I don't want the Remington. Great video, very informative!

[@GunBlue490]

Ruger produced a great many of them through the years. Perhaps the most highly sought are the Winchester Model 70 versions, but the dollars run pretty wild, as most were pre-64 also. Winchester recently produced a special run Shot Show version Model 70 Featherweight in the pre-64 style, which I own, and which I believe is the prettiest gun they ever made. Extremely accurate, too. Some dealers still have them on hand, and even though they are now pricey, they are much less than a vintage one. I just viewed several on Gunbroker at attractive prices, including a nice looking Winchester XTR Model 70 (post-64 style Featherweight) and some Kimbers.

[@RogerSnell]

I've just never had a gun shipped before so it's a little confusing to me.

[@GunBlue490]

+Roger Snell The process is quite simple and is done all the time. Guns must be shipped to Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders, who then execute the transfer to the new owner, just as if you were buying a gun from him. It works the same, whether from a private person via Gunbroker, or a large internet dealer, such as Hinterland Outfitters. As a buyer, you simply inform the seller who your FFL is, and the FFL sends a signed copy of his license to the seller, whether it's a private person, or a dealer. Your dealer will charge you a set handling fee, which he should settle with you before the gun comes. My dealer charges $20.00, but he's a small shop. Large dealers have large overhead and may charge significantly more. Unless you live in CA, where fees run over $100 or more, typical fees run about $25 to $35. You must usually pay shipping costs to the seller, which he should make clear before the same. Private sales of rifles can be shipped at normal postal/insurance rates, which should generally not exceed $25 to $35, either, unless insurance is very high. Handguns get very costly for non FFLs to ship, due to postal restrictions. Hinterland Outfitters charged less than 10 bucks for shipping, last I knew. Don't be afraid of the process. I have done it as both seller and buyer many times. It's extremely easy, and you'll get the gun you desire within several days. If you are not sure if the process, ask your dealer to explain it, as it's part of his normal business, and it's how he can make money without inventorying a gun. Some dealers don't like to do them, so go elsewhere, as most do.

[@RogerSnell]

GunBlue490 Thanks for the information. I'll probably try it someday after I pick a FFL holder near me but I need to be very familiar with the feel of a gun before I purchase it. I like the Ruger M77 but I've heard they have accuracy issues but you can't always believe what you hear. That Winchester you mentioned is a beautiful rifle.

[@GunBlue490]

+Roger Snell I've owned two very accurate, original vintage Ruger M77s, and have shot a number of others. They were all very accurate, even before Ruger began making their own barrels, which I suspect are even better. According to what I was told at the factory many years ago, a common reason that many become inaccurate is due to owners who free float the barrel, without understanding the relationship of the 45 degree angled front receiver screw. Unless the barrel is supported for an inch or so in front of the receiver, the angled screw will place torque on the receiver, creating a springy imbalance in the barrel. Unless accompanied by a good glass bedding job, with a firm bed in front of the front screw, the factory bedding with upward barrel pressure out front should be left alone.

[@K4JW]

I just bought a 6.5 creedmoor, and I love it, but after watching this, I think the next rifle I buy is going to be a 257. Also this is Dec 2020, and we are in a awful ammo shortage, but almost all the stores I go to always have several boxes of 257 Roberts. Maybe this will help bring the cartridge back from the dead. It seems to have good availability, at least at this point in time. Also sir I enjoy your content. You and Paul Harrell are my go to gun channels. Thank you and God bless.

[@kesleycottrell1416]

When my daughter started hunting we went to the gun shop to get her gun. She picked out a Model 70 in .257 Roberts. We got dies and brass because we reload everything. It took a bit to get a good load. Didn't realize how picky it is. After shortening the stock she became a deer hammer. It's an excellent deer round. It does damage some meat but not a lot.

[@GunBlue490]

I'm quite surprised at your findings. The Roberts has long been considered a very naturally accurate round, and very un-picky. I'd be happy to share some of my very accurate loads. IMR4350 is probably one of the very best powders for 100 to 120 grains. Reloder 15 is superb with lighter bullets. You'll have low meat damage below 2,800 fps. at whatever range it's hitting.

[@kesleycottrell1416]

It took a bit of playing with it but we got a good one. She does love that old gun. She has three wall hangers with it and a pile of doe. It was definitely an interesting journey for sure. The best part of reloading is there isn't an issue with ammo.

[@jonbomarito48]

hello...i really enjoy your videos and this one in particular..I am a big fan of the 257 Roberts,and the 7x57 ,which of course the Roberts was based on.....you are right on with your thinking of the 257 Roberts,as one of the greatest all around calibers..I just purchased a 257 Roberts,model 70 with crf ,not the xtr version..never could understand why someone would want a Winchester with push feed..but,thats a whole nother discussion..anyway,i have been looking at some of my reloading manuals,and have actually noticed that one of my later publications,has higher powder loadings,and muzzle velocities,than a hornady manual dated from 1967..so obviously,the newer publication has finally recognized the need for the upgraded ballistics etc,etc ..my question is where can i find and read about loadings that come closer to the 25 06 velocities that you mention in this video..i realize you cannot endorse or recommend those "hot" loads,but i have been reloading and shooting for over 50 years,so it would be great to investigate this cartridge alittle more..and give this great caliber its due notice,so to speak..please keep up the fantastic videos...you have no idea,how much i enjoy listening to you...jb

[@jeffreyhall2136]

I recently purchased a Kimber in .257. Love it. Ammo is tuff to find and expensive when you do find it.

[@johnkizziah108]

Been useing a 257 roberts for years have a 700 rem mountain rifle and a rugar 77 ultralight in 257 my go to gun including elk.

[@vincef5832]

When your in the mood for depth GunBlue does a great job. Although a bit lengthy, the videos he makes are full of very practical information and knowledge. From what I'm learning it seems there is nothing new under the sun. Apparently some of the most efficient performing calibers were developed in the early days(and early 20th century) of smokeless powder cartridges. Many of the modern cartridge calibers being developed is like splitting hairs. I attribute this to marketing.

[@jasonford6317]

Fair and Balanced view of this Cartridge from a very measured, detailed and insightful historical perspective. These are excellent cartridge profiles. I wish Politicians and Jurists brought this kind of clarity to their professions. It would be a better world.

[@Ammo08]

I have been using a Ruger UltraLite in 257 Roberts for years now...prior to that I had an old Remington 700..great cartridge...

[@earltaylor3971]

In the early 80's I bought the .257 Roberts in the Remington model 700 Classic. Great rifle for shooting Deer in Utah! Every deer I have shot at with this rifle has been dropped in its tracks. I do not know about the other rifles made in this caliber by Remington, but my 700 Classic had full sized action and the magazine was long enough to minimize the jump to lands. Easy to create accurate handloads with 100 grain bullets and H4350 powder.

[@edwray0able]

As usual, fabulous!!

[@georgeferguson9779]

My dad thinks highly of this caliber. We were just talking about it this morning. Probably the all-around best in it's range of calibers.

[@GunBlue490]

It is indeed a very respectable cartridge that is unfortunately lost in time. In its day it was the 6.5 Creedmoor, and still can be counted on to do a fine job.

[@clintnorthwoods]

Great video! !!,I couldn`t wait to get home from work to watch it, I have a 1938 model 70 on layaway, I`ll let you know down the road how it works out, thanks for keeping the wisdom alive of "Cactus Jack O`Connor; Whelan; Roberts; and yourself!!! ( 257, a favorite of my late late father-in-law,a brother-in-law, also Tom Gresham, & a real good friend Larry at my gun club.

[@GunBlue490]

+Stephen Shortall What a terrific find of an awesome combination you have there! Winchester did the .257 Roberts the best, properly throated and with a long magazine. Thank you for your comments, and for watching.

[@Ammo08]

As an update, every time I reload a batch of 257 Roberts I put your video on right before I start working on it. It's a great cartridge, I just hope I can keep finding components. Like an idiot, I'm contemplating buying a used Kimber 84 in 257 Roberts, just because.

[@JohnDoe-vq8bg]

Great intro! Never shot the 257 or 25 06. One of the guys up here has the 25 06. I'm so stuck on the 30 06, bolt 223's, 22 mag and on and on! Love my bolts. Anyway, thank you very much! You go great with a cup of tea by the way!

[@beardedrancher]

It's one of my favorites. Along with the 270, 22-250, 25-06, and 250 savage

[@romanandrushko1477]

I like all of your videos. You should do a video on the 257 Weatherby Magnum round.

[@jerrymoran8323]

Excellent historical references to Ned Roberts as his writings to black powder long range matches between US and Ireland revealed the capabilities of muzzle loading and black powder rifle cartridges.

[@jerrymoran8323]

I wanted to add my experience with the .257 Roberts built on a 95 Mauser with Cherry stock and 20 in bbl as a mountain rifle Bausch and Lomb Balvar V8 attached with Buehler micro dial mounts. Easily shot moa. Later in 1978 J.D. Jones built a silhouette pistol for me in .257 Roberts. Cross/hair front and Lyman target peep. Easy 40’s with factory Winchester 120 gr. I am on the look out for a RUGER NO 1 in .257. Always an excellent perspective on your videos. TRJM

[@andreifedorov2108]

Great Intro! Very authentic. I am very glad to learn about all these different cartridges. Thank you.

[@russwoods7899]

Love your introduction. I have an old Remington 722 in .257 Roberts. Shot a lot of deer with it. Great cartridge. I won't try and shoot any deer past 300 yards with it. I just don't have the confidence to make a clean kill shot past that range. I don't want to wound a deer. I want venison in the freezer. I'm from Canada and there can be some long shots but I know when I can't make that shot.

[@boriscook6817]

Russ Woods use that criteria for all your hunting 300yds should be maximum for everyone on anything Except varmint And now with the excellent advances in calling Long shots should be a thing of the past

[@ar6985]

Thought you might find this interesting- it's an excerpt from an article by Phil Sharpe titled "The Reloading Game"- from a 1940 Stoeger catalog- "...A handloader is not limited in his selection of components as is the man who confines himself to factory ammunition. A good example of this is the man who handloads for the .257 Roberts.....The skillful handloader with the finest tools made can produce excellent ammunition. By the same token, the skillful handloader with the poorest tools on the market could also produce good ammunition.....Loading tool makers cannot build the human element into the equipment."

[@GunBlue490]

+ar6985 Phil Sharpe was one of the best, and one of the early smokeless powder pioneers who was devoted to accurate cartridges, and promoted the .257 Roberts. Thank you for passing that along!

[@davideitutis450]

WHAT A GREAT GUY TO LISTEN TOO, SIMPLY THE BEST ON UTUBE.......

[@reedpond6867]

I seldom take my 257 Roberts out hunting anymore, but; when I do take my old Winchester or custom Springfield '03's work like a dream on Deer, Black Bear, Moose, Elk and Speed Goats!!!

[@randallharrington8825]

I have really enjoyed watching your videos how about the 25-06 while we're talking 257 caliber

[@oldschoolron8602]

Always wanted a 257 in one way or an other. Years back I worked at a gun shop that had a 257 Ackley but couldn't afford it. Love the ruger Num 1 257 weath. with the 26 inch barrel but to old to make good use of it.

[@phillipjohnson7583]

It is interesting after its release that so many have seem to attempt to achieve the 257 Roberts performance.

[@herbertwessel2412]

Dear Captain, I learn a lot by seeing your videos. 6,5 caliber is enough this includes in Europe Mannlicher Schönauer, Swede or 6,5 Mauser, all of them were created in the 1890ies or so. To me the length and weight of the rifle is important. About 40“ and 7 lbs should be practical. I hunt with a ninety years old Heeren falling block rifle and a in Suhl Thüringen bespoke build sxs combination gun in 6,5x57R 28/70. Barrel length of both is 25“. Performance should be up to 300 yds reasonable. Greetings from a German Captain.

[@jonathansmith5189]

I'm looking forward to your video about the 25-06!!

[@lawrencespies8674]

one of my favs. I have a Remington Sendero in .25-06 that is a tack driver, Also have a .270 Win. These two and the .243 are my favorite 3 cartridges for bolt guns. AR15 platform favs are 6.8(AR Performance barrel) .223 Wylde, .270AR and 6mmAR. 30ARX.

[@atthebrink74]

I am a 6mm Remington fan. Very versatile cartridge. I also have an AR15 in 6.8SPC with the AR Performance barrel. That AR is a real shooter! Great deer and hog cartridge!

[@jake501967]

Literally thinking the same thing. hopefully he's made one by now, I'll go look.

[@22lrmarksman18]

mike underbrink 6mm rem and 257rob are like chevy and GMC trucks, pretty much the same thing with minor differences

[@johnt4060]

Jonathan Smith jewel of a cartridge

[@pseudopetrus]

While I am not a hand loader, I do think I learn a lot from listening to those with expertise in hand loading. I have recently tried some commercial copper (lead free) offerings and am impressed enough to want to learn more about the practical use of copper bullets. My experience is that they tend to be lighter bullet offerings (less recoil which is good) and still very accurate (5/8 groups which is really good for me and my hunting (low power scope) set up).

[@BigRedPower59]

Was looking at the Ruger website today and noticed that they are chambering their Hawkeye rifle in 257 Rob. I hope that other manufacturers will soon follow in their footsteps.

[@boriscook6817]

BigRedPower59 years back they offered it in their model 77 I assumed that they have all along

[@goldcfi7103]

I had a very rare Ruger M77Kkii "skeleton/boat-paddle" stocked rifle chambered in the .257Bob. I bought it from a collector's estate sale. It was NIB NOS with the box, hangtag, and the rest. I held onto it for about two years, and then sold it to a collector more serious than me. It was too nice to shoot! I shoulda held on to it.....

[@AluminumStud]

25-06 has got it done for me since 2005.

[@64samsky]

I absolutely love your videos! Thank you for what you do.

[@Jeff_Seely]

I agree about everything you said here. It truly is a legendary quarter bore. If you have one of these there's no reason to go out and get a 25-06. It will do all the same things fairly closely.

[@johndemchak2832]

I found this on you tube I have hunted with the one my dad got me at the age of 10 I started hunting with it at age 12 I have lost count of the numbers of deer and ground hogs I have killed with it but a few days ago I was deer hunting and a guy called it a lil boy gun I looked at him and said you can shoot if I miss I ranged the at 398 yards and got ready to shoot the deer took the shot and watched it hit the ground and turned to the man and said go get my deer dog lol my 257 is all the gun I will every need I have it in a ruger m77 mark II

[@rickterrance4981]

Excellent rifle man... probably my favorite bolt rifle tied with the Winchester model 70

[@markstrain9429]

Sir, I have watched many of your videos and have learned so much from the depth of your experience. I have become a fan of the 257 Roberts and enjoyed learning about its history and application. It is difficult to describe where to start with the learning i.e. scopes, optics, calibres, rifle styles etc. What I am curious about is the ergonomics of rifle design. Being small in stature and left handed many rifles off the shelf are inadequate such as length of pull of stock length and eye relief, and handedness. In Australia we are limited to not having adjustable stocks thus making most offerings in a adjustable tactical style unavailable. This leaves set length wood and synthetic stocks for the average male. What can you recommend regarding finding the right ergonomic setup for the target shooter or hunter? Many Thx Mark

[@rangersmith4652]

Thank you for this video. My research back in 2010-12 revealed the .257 Roberts as a great cartridge, and I decided to buy a rifle in this chambering. After falling in love with the action of my Browning A-Bolt Medallion in 7mm Rem Mag, I searched for a couple of years for one chambered in .257 Roberts. I finally found a very nice example at a show, offered by a private seller, and snapped it up. Next I picked up a set of dies, mounted a Swift 2-7x40 scope, and sighted it in. Sadly, work and family life got a bit crazy, and this beautiful rifle languished in my safe for a few years. Now I'm ready to get back to it. I'm going to get my shop set up again and work up some loads, starting with the Lyman 49th Edition loads. I'll be one of those keeping the Bob alive. Yay for that!

[@olhippie1]

This discussion of the Robert's brought to mind O'connor's recommendation of that same 7 Mauser case opened up to .338 as an ideal close cover brush gun, suitable for deer ,bear, and elk, in a package with plenty of power but mild recoil for it's wallop. Of course with the .338 Federal around and still much ignored for ranging considerations ( .358 Win. too) the O'Conner is very unlikely to ever be more than a memory of Cactus Jack's writting.

[@chrisl3337]

Yes I have marlin 25/06 for a cheap rifle it shoots so well, I'm having trouble developing a load that shoots worst than 32mm group at 100m.. it's not fussy on what I put through her

[@garyevans3421]

I purchased a pre-model 700 Remington from an older friend who also threw in several boxes of handloads with 100 grain bullets. As a believer, generally, of heavier bullets. In this case, 117 grains, he told me I would not like them. Thanks to you, now I know why. Remington used a rate of twist that won’t stabilize heavier bullets than 100 grains. They sabotaged their own 6mm cartridge in the same way in comparison to Winchester’s 243. They invisioned it as a varmit cartridge instead of an allrounder and gave it a rate of twist that wouldn’t stabilize 100 grain bullets. Interestingly, I used one of those 100 grain loads in my 257 Roberts to kill a large feral boar with a rear quartering shot in the chest and it went straight down and expired fast. I quickly developed confidence in the rifle.

[@GunBlue490]

Please watch my video on rifling twist, where I discuss twist in great detail, and actually demonstrate twist measurement with my 257 Roberts. Standard barrel twist for the 257 Roberts was made to 10 inch by all manufacturers, including all Remington models, with the only exception I know of being 9-1/2 for the Browning A-Bolt and custom rifles. Unless your rifle was rebarrelled or is shot out, your rifle should easily handle all bullets in all weights, including most 120 grain. Some target bullets are another matter, and can be too long. Bullet stability is a LENGTH issue, not a weight issue. As I demonstrate in that video, length and weights do not correspond to one another by simple progression, because they vary by shape, in addition to weight. You can have a 100 grain bullet that is as long as a 120, and 120's can be quite short, like Speer's, or very long. My Winchester Model 70 with 10 inch will even handle the ultra-long Berger 115 grain VLD (it's lots longer than most 120's) with great accuracy, even though they claim 10 inch is marginal for that long shape. Please understand that while Remington didn't do the 257 Roberts any favors in coupling their short magazine with a long throat, the rifling twist rate was spot on, and conformed to the industry standard across the board. If the rifle is accurate with other loads, the inaccuracy is certainly not twist related, but probably just an incorrect load. My go-to powders for heavier bullet weight in my 257 Roberts are IMR-4350 and H-4831 with standard large primers, which both shoot target grade to 5/8 inch or less, and are very heavy hitters, not far behind the 25-06. Speaking of which, it's time to load up a few!

[@servantapashia7724]

GunBlue490 i have a A-bolt Browning what does the 9 1/2 per say do as to the other's?

[@reloader50bmg]

Have a Kimber .257 bob, with hand loads and +p cases I can hold my own any day with a 25-06. less blast and gun weight. "My go to gun any day...".

[@GunBlue490]

ian rumbelow Yes, the Bob has a more balanced bore to chamber ratio. Original factory pressure specifications greatly inhibited the potential, and although +P specifications increased the pressure to a better velocity, it was still not loaded to its full potential. The 25-06 will always have a velocity advantage of about 150 fps in each bullet weight. 100 fps provides about 22 yards of downrange performance, so that equates to less than 35 yards on paper, a third of a football field, or a good underhand softball toss. In the game field, it means nothing. As I have frequently said, we live in a very competitive world, and in ballistics, the faster cartridge wins. But, the 257 Roberts has many advantages over its 25 bore competitors, being superior inherent accuracy, low recoil, better barrel life, and better economy. Now, a savvy marksman knows that accuracy will outperform on distant game any day, because you can compute for holdover, but not for big groups!

[@reloader50bmg]

now at 70 years old, I'm done with the "mag" faze of my life.... just a gentle recoil will do fine...thanks for the reply!

[@6mm_chris20]

i know this is a 2 year old video but the 25 cal is soon to make a come back , lol in prs that is, a company named black jack bullets is making and doing testing on a 131 gr 257 cal bullet called the ace. BC on it is G7 .330 and being pushed at 3000 fps. and they are going to make a good hunting bullet with high BC also the rise of the 25x47L and 25 creedmoor is on its way. lol and I like all your videos. very informative .

[@robertanderson8613]

I hope you will continue somewhere else after you tube removes content I am going to build a 257 Ackley for my grandson if deer hunting ill be using partion bullets as I do with my 243 could you recommend a barrel length and twist rate please thanks again for making your videos

[@abcertweld]

LMAO Love the intro LMAO. Yes the 257 Robert's is quite phenomenal.

[@bobkat1663]

Great show.

[@andypeard1731]

I love the introduction!

[@matthewt1968]

Great video as always.

[@RickNethery]

I am watching this video to learn about the .257 Roberts. A rifle came into My possession chambered for the 257/6.5 wildcat. I have the neccessary Redding dies, some Remington .257 Robert's brass, and Hornady 140 grain soft points coming. This rifle will strictly be a hand load proposition but I think it will be fantastic for hunting deer and feral hogs.

[@GunBlue490]

For deer and hogs, you might be better off with 120 grain bullets. They will have the same sectional density as 115 grain 257, 130 grain 270, 140 grain 7mm, and 165 grain 308 bullets. Lighter recoil, flatter trajectory, and perfectly balanced penetration. That's a terrific wildcat, which has better potential than the 6.5 Creedmoor, with a larger case capacity.

[@RickNethery]

@@GunBlue490 Thank You for replying Sir, I will order some 120 grain bullets too. I only chose the 140 because the barrel is still the original 1&9 metford rifled Arisaka barrel just rechambered the original Japanese service round was 139 grains. . It is a beautiful 50s era sporter with beautiful bluing and a hand fitted walnut stock. I hope You have a happy New Year Sir. God Bless You.

[@GunBlue490]

@@RickNethery It should handle 120 just fine.

[@RickNethery]

@@GunBlue490 You were right sir, the rifle is very accurate with 120 grain. I mounted a Leupold 2X7 scope on it, and am looking forward to deer season.

[@mbracing8578]

I'm getting a 257 roberts custom made out of a 1939 turk mauser action can't wait until it's done it will be done around may or june. I bought the mauser rifle whole for a steal at $175.00 wish I could find more at that price lol but it's gonna be a sweet 257 roberts when it's done being built. nice video

[@GunBlue490]

MB Racing Sounds good.

[@OdinX316]

You sir are a treasure! I love your videos.

[@kitbruttig1995]

Hi GB. If you were going to build a 257 Roberts, what caliber (bolt face) action could you use, what barrel twist and what barrel length would you choose for a hunting rifle? I just saw a you tube video on the 257 Weatherby where the author suggested their might be a "renewed" interest in 257 calibers. He also said slower twist barrels were holding the 257 Roberts back. Love to hear your comments on the subject.

[@russellmiller212]

I enjoy viewing all of your video feeds, specifically this clip, and may one day soon be the privileged owner of one 257 Robert's and 25-06!

[@BigT27295]

Love this video.

[@jeffreyhall2136]

Just found some Federal 120gr NP for my .257. Can't wait for deer season.

[@johnnorman7708]

As sportsmen, we need a reminder from time to time, of how great some of our oldest cartridges really were. Pretty funny how we forget or mange to ignore some of the absolute wonders while getting all excited over the Johnny come lately creations. I can see where the .25s really took a drubbing in the market. Especially because of the .243/6mm cartridges since the mid 1950s. .25-35, .250, .257, .25-06, are all great specific and/or general use cartridges. And most if not all have improved with the improved powder technology. Read an article penned decades ago about the quarter bore cartridges being super efficient in the author's extensive experience. Can't argue with anyone making a case for .the .25s. They have the goods.

[@charleshuyck6641]

It's strange but the 30 cals are holding on 308 win is second to 223 and 3006 is in 4th place after 6.5 Creedmoor and the 270 Win has dropped to 14th place. All this based on 2022 ammo sales.

[@servantapashia7724]

i have a Browning 257. i believe says Japan on it as well got it from my grandmother for my 18th bday and graduation present. very great smooth action and very good to school for me ammo is hard to find tho sadly....

[@GunBlue490]

Perhaps you should consider handloading for it. You can get a simple Lee pocket loader that requires no press or other paraphernalia, and you can load casually to your heart's content with ammo that will be more accurate than you can buy, cheaper, and with custom bullets of your choice.

[@jacklowe3788]

@@GunBlue490 Any idea on good place to purchase brass & Good reload manual for the 257 Roberts?