OAL not consistent

[223nbecker45]

I'm brand new to loading. I'm finishing my first batch of 223 on a rock chucker with redding fl die set. Using PMC 1x fired brass with 69 hpbt Sierra. When I measure the OAL with a caliper they are not consistent. 1 will be 2.250 the next 2.256,2.253 and so on. Is this ok or what should I try different?

 

[i_Adam_i18]

Re: OAL not consistent

If you're measuring to the tip, they probably wont be. Get a bullet comparator, they measure off the ogive. that's what your die seats from.

 

[vman]

Re: OAL not consistent

The meplat of your bullets will have variances that cant really be avoided. As wasp said, get a comparitor set.

I use the Hornady ones and they are great

 

[tnichols]

Re: OAL not consistent

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The meplat of your bullets will have variances that cant really be avoided. As wasp said, get a comparitor set.

I use the Hornady ones and they are great

</div></div>

+1

 

[EL34]

Re: OAL not consistent

One of these may be helpful as well. http://www.sinclairintl.com/.aspx/pid=36562/Product/Sinclair_Meplat_Trimmers

 

[223nbecker45]

Re: OAL not consistent

Thank you Im ordering a bullet comparator from sinclair. Since Im loading for a AR I will have to seat a little deeper or trim the meplat in order to feed from mags correct?

 

[EL34]

Re: OAL not consistent

Measure the inside of the mags to see how long you can go. Trimming the meplats will help get everything nice and consistant. My USGI mags measure 2.275, and P-mags look to be around 2.265. Bump it back a tad from those measurements to ensure good feeding.