I am in the process of beginning load development for long distance. I have read the sticky for this, but I do not currently have some of the equipment that has been suggested to use (bullet comparator, rod locks). My question is this: could I not make up a dummy round using the specific bullet that I want to load for, by inserting said bullet into a case, leaving it seated long. Chamber the round and slowly and gently close and lock the bolt. Remove the round from the chamber and measure from base to meplat, record that measurement for future reference, add .010" to jam it and begin my work up with powder.
I have handloaded for years, but was always limited to magazine length, so none of the above was necessary. I finally have something that will shoot long distance, so I'd like to do this the right way.
I have handloaded for years, but was always limited to magazine length, so none of the above was necessary. I finally have something that will shoot long distance, so I'd like to do this the right way.