Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
4 posters
Page 1 of 1
Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
I'm looking for a way to speed up validating cartridge OAL length during the reloading process. This may be overkill, but is there a comparator-type caliper attachment like that used for rifle cartridges?
230Ball- Posts : 97
Join date : 2012-08-26
Location : Virginia
Re: Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
How is your OAL varying? Its nearly impossible for it to vary if you're using decent bullets and not changing the die. Seems like a waste of time.
zanemoseley- Posts : 2689
Join date : 2015-07-11
Location : Cookeville, TN
Re: Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
I agree that it probably is a waste of time. OALs are varying around 0.015 in a test batch of 20. I'm new to progessive reloading and using a Redding micrometer-type bullet seater. Crimps are perfect. Am I doing something wrong? It could be that I'm not using the Redding die correctly, or I have established that rhythm yet with the XL650. I'm open to ideas!
230Ball- Posts : 97
Join date : 2012-08-26
Location : Virginia
Re: Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
My 650 runs only a few thousandths variation at the most.
They require a very solid bench to get the variation down, as if the machine is moving around when operated it can be problematic.
Make sure you are completing the up and down strokes with the handle completely and firmly.
Consistency in operation of the machine is the key to success.
They require a very solid bench to get the variation down, as if the machine is moving around when operated it can be problematic.
Make sure you are completing the up and down strokes with the handle completely and firmly.
Consistency in operation of the machine is the key to success.
DA/SA- Posts : 1525
Join date : 2017-10-09
Age : 68
Location : Southeast Florida
Re: Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
I agree that .015" variation is far more than you should be getting. I would also see how the seating stem compares to your bullet profile, perhaps it not contacting the same way every time. Do you have an old style seating die (not micrometer adjust) you could test.
zanemoseley- Posts : 2689
Join date : 2015-07-11
Location : Cookeville, TN
Re: Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
Lead SWC bullets in the Redding seater?
If so, I would use the Dillon seater set up with the shoulder seat plug. Easy to clean too.
If so, I would use the Dillon seater set up with the shoulder seat plug. Easy to clean too.
Jack H- Posts : 2703
Join date : 2011-06-10
Age : 75
Location : Oregon
Re: Measuring OAL Cartridge Length
I'm currently reloading 9mm .355 dia 115 gr Sierra Tournament Master for CF bullseye that I may replace with my Model 52.
230Ball- Posts : 97
Join date : 2012-08-26
Location : Virginia
Similar topics
» Over all cartridge length?
» Eley Cartridge Length
» Cheap .22 ammo test
» 32 ACP Overall Length For Pardini SP/Hornady Factory XTP Ammo Overall Length?
» Measuring..
» Eley Cartridge Length
» Cheap .22 ammo test
» 32 ACP Overall Length For Pardini SP/Hornady Factory XTP Ammo Overall Length?
» Measuring..
Page 1 of 1
Permissions in this forum:
You cannot reply to topics in this forum