Length variances in 69gr SMK?

[DamnDave]

Yesterday I loaded up some 69gr SMK in 223 and while measuring them, I noticed a pretty big variance in COAL. It ranged anywhere from 2.249 - 2.259. I then measured them from the ogive and they had a variance of about .007.

They were all seated using a Forster Ultra Micrometer die.

What is a "normal" variance in lengths? With my 168gr SMKs they are all within .002.

Did I just get a bunk batch?

 

[Greg Langelius *]

Re: Length variances in 69gr SMK?

That's relatively OK. Most, if not all, production bullets exhibit such variances. If it bothers you, segregate them into smaller groups with less variance. I wouldn't, and don't.

In an AR, the performance difference would most likely be unnoticable. It might make some small difference in a BR bolt gun.

The real measurement is on the target.

Greg

 

[Fuzzball]

Re: Length variances in 69gr SMK?

"The real measurement is on the target."

And that's the whole story.