C O L question

[Wade-n]

I’m fairly new to reloading so sometimes I’m not sure what to expect. When I reload Rigel rounds I measure each one for Col with a comparator. I am finding it difficult to stay within.002 across about 50 rounds. I would expect to deviate no more than .001 in Col and would prefer less than that. I wonder if this is a press issue. There is also a distinct possibility I am expecting too much . I use a Hornady single stage and was wondering if I should expect better continuity if I switch to a different press. Just thought I’d ask some guys with more experience.
Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[Gee Kay]

Try measuring the ogive. You might find it slightly more accurate. At least that's what I've found on my single stage Hornady press using Hornady dies.

 

[straightshooter1]

I’m fairly new to reloading so sometimes I’m not sure what to expect. When I reload Rigel rounds I measure each one for Col with a comparator. I am finding it difficult to stay within.002 across about 50 rounds. I would expect to deviate no more than .001 in Col and would prefer less than that. I wonder if this is a press issue. There is also a distinct possibility I am expecting too much . I use a Hornady single stage and was wondering if I should expect better continuity if I switch to a different press. Just thought I’d ask some guys with more experience.
Thanks in advance for any help!

Because there can be more than .002 difference in the length of a bullet AND variance in seating force can effect how far a bullet is seated. As far as the bullet length issue, it's really not such a bit deal as any difference in the bullet's BTO (Base to Ogive) measurement. Some people, as I do, will sort their bullets by the BTO to get a more consistent seating depth so that the volume within the case is as consistent as possible. As for getting consistent seating force for the same goal of seating depth, annealing or lubing the necks will help with this.

 

[Wade-n]

Because there can be more than .002 difference in the length of a bullet AND variance in seating force can effect how far a bullet is seated. As far as the bullet length issue, it's really not such a bit deal as any difference in the bullet's BTO (Base to Ogive) measurement. Some people, as I do, will sort their bullets by the BTO to get a more consistent seating depth so that the volume within the case is as consistent as possible. As for getting consistent seating force for the same goal of seating depth, annealing or lubing the necks will help with this.

Thank you , there is so much to learn about proper loading! I can usually attain understanding of the concepts given time with contemplation. I noticed that the SD on my last set was far beyond what I felt reasonable. So now it’s time to learn and apply!
Thanks for the help

 

[Supersubes]

Thank you , there is so much to learn about proper loading! I can usually attain understanding of the concepts given time with contemplation. I noticed that the SD on my last set was far beyond what I felt reasonable. So now it’s time to learn and apply!
Thanks for the help

Were you measuring base to tip on your rounds, or base too ogive? You said you used a comparator, which would typically imply you were measuring to the ogive. Also, how close to the lands are you loading. In my experience, the further away you are, the less small variations matter.

 

[Wade-n]

Base to ogive, and distance to lands I’m not sure about I haven’t measured that yet. I was starting out by trying to build as consistent a round as possible to render as reliably consistent jump with each round.

 

[Wade-n]

Try measuring the ogive. You might find it slightly more accurate. At least that's what I've found on my single stage Hornady press using Hornady dies.

I am measuring to the ogive with a comparitor. It did help dramatically to do that but I still think I can get better results than I am getting now.

 

[Wade-n]

I am also dressing the case base with a stone to debur before loading.
Also thank you all for the help!