New to reloading

[kbrowne14]

  I am going to be reloading 30-06 and 300 win mag.  But one thing that I noticed, in my manuals all the info for the 300 win mag is based on a barrel that is 24" long.  The gun I will be loading for is 26" long.  Does that increase pressures or change the way that I should reload?  I know that there will be increased muzzle velocity, but I can't find anything anywhere in the book or the internet about if this changes pressure.  If somebody on here could lend some of their knowledge I would greatly appreciate.  I don't want to blow myself up.

That being said, I just got everything I need for reloading.  I still need to build a bench before I can start, but I have been reading everything I can to learn about reloading.  I picked up the rcbs rock chucker kit and a few other things.  I can't wait to start.  All that I do now is read about reloading.

[700xcr]

You should have no problem following the reloading manual that states a 24" barrel. You might gain velocity with the 26" barrel then stated with a 24" barrel. I load up five rounds in each grainage of powder charge and see what groups the best. Always start with the min. charge weight and work up. If you start getting a sticky bolt and hard extraction then you know what is your max. loading of your firearm. Read the manual at the beginning and they will give you tips on what to look for far as high pressure, case prep and steps to reloading.

[BOWHUNTER45]

You should have no problem following the reloading manual that states a 24" barrel. You might gain velocity with the 26" barrel then stated with a 24" barrel. I load up five rounds in each grainage of powder charge and see what groups the best. Always start with the min. charge weight and work up. If you start getting a sticky bolt and hard extraction then you know what is your max. loading of your firearm. Read the manual at the beginning and they will give you tips on what to look for far as high pressure, case prep and steps to reloading.

  I agree 700xcr another thing to watch for is primer expansion ..If the load is to hot , alot of times you will notice the primer has backed out of the casing alittle bit.. when loading and shooting pay attention to all details this will make you a better reloader !

[GregMcFadden]

And just remember...  start at or below the starter loads, NOT the max loads.  And ask questions, there are a lot of reloaders here that are very willing to help (and those near you would probably be happy to show you their best practices if you ask)