OAL measurments

[heydavemd]

I'm using a Hornady OAL gauge, and am having a lot of trouble reproducing consistent measurements. I've tried advancing the projectile slowly and softly, and tried it more firmly, but I still get a variance that reaches 0.6+mm, and occasionally up to and over a mm. I've tried using the same bullet over and over (either Amax or Scenar), and I've tried it using a new bullet every other measurement, and the only thing I can reproduce is my inconsistency. I've tried painting the tip with a sharpie, and try to leave a faint mark when it contacts the lands, and that didn't help either. I've tried it on different weapons (Rem, FN, Nemesis, Ruger), and they are all the same, so its not a shot out throat. Any secrets you can share, or should I just load them to the reloading books recommended length.

 

[XTR]

Re: OAL measurments

Great sticky thread at the top of the page works great for me.

 

[dvdt]

Re: OAL measurments

Here's a thread I had tagged as I'm still waiting on my rifle but plan on using the same tool you have.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2017358

The quick & dirty was try to make sure the modified case mouth is burr free and be careful.

Now I've tagged your thread. Hope this helps...