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Equipment & Gear => Guns and Ammo => Topic started by: Crunchy on March 28, 2019, 12:28:38 PM


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Title: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on March 28, 2019, 12:28:38 PM
Curious how other handloaders go about developing there pet loads.  I will throw mine out there, but curious what everyone else does.

I already have primers, bullet, and powder picked out from previous loads

1. Seat bullet .020 off the lands
2.  Figure starting charge and go up in .3 grain increments to where I think max load will be
3.  Grab chrono and head to the range
4.  I dont worry at all about where my impacts are.  Usually dont even shoot at a target.  I looked for nodes (flat spots) from the chrono data that expand say 3 rounds.  I usually find 2-3 nodes depending how low of a charge I start at and end at.
5.  I shoot until I reach max load where primers and/or sticky bolt/swipe marks show and stop there.
6.  Go to chrono data and load 3 rounds each of the node range(s) and then shoot at some paper 100 yards.  Best 2-3 groups go to the final stage.
7.  Load 5 from the 2-3 groups and shoot at 200.  One should stand out.  If not, seating depth gets adjusted, usually closer to the lands for bergers for me.
8.  Finally, load 5 of the winner and shoot over the chrono.  Looking for good ES and SD numbers. Numbers should be good based on the original chrono data I started with. 

My cheapo pro chrony makes shooting at a targets, and through the chrono tough at the same time tough.  If I had either a magneto speed or labradar I could shorten this up at step or two.  Other than work on the brass, what steps did I leave out, miss, or are unnecessary to find my petload. 

Another thing that has me wondering.  My pro chrony reads speed from where it is set up (12-15 feet) from the muzzle.  Most accurate reading would be at the muzzle.  only chrono that gets this reading would be a magnetospeed.  Not sure where labradar captures its reading.  So since I am getting velocity at say 15 feet away how much of a difference would this make.  Might be overthinking it, but when I order my custom dial, I want it as accurate as possible.  More coming on this in another thread :chuckle:
Title: Load Development
Post by: Stein on March 28, 2019, 02:02:17 PM
I’m in the same boat, VX5 arriving today and needing an accurate velocity.  Magneto is $180, maybe someone has one they would rent?

I also calculated velocity with known drops at known distances and G7 for the bullet.


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Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on March 28, 2019, 06:44:06 PM
When I’m starting load development I’ll start with a low charge.  Load up some 3 shot groups starting at .015” off the landes or mag length which ever is shorter and seat each group deeper by .030”.   
Which ever shot best I’ll use that seating depth for my load work. I shoot a ladder over my chrono ( I use magneto speed, must have an accurate chrono for this!) target dosent matter.   Look for my upper flat spot near max.  Then I’ll load up 5 shot groups and fine tune my seating depth in .005” increments. 
If you don’t have a magneto speed or labradar then you could do 3 shot ladder test at 300 yards.   
This is my method that’s worked well for me.   Yrmv
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Wolfdog2314 on March 28, 2019, 06:57:16 PM
Subscribed.
Just got my Labradar in the mail. Looking at the different methods as I just started reloading. Brass prep stage is done. Time to load. Looking forward to following...
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on March 28, 2019, 07:27:56 PM
Nobody has input on this part?

Another thing that has me wondering.  My pro chrony reads speed from where it is set up (12-15 feet) from the muzzle.  Most accurate reading would be at the muzzle.  only chrono that gets this reading would be a magnetospeed.  Not sure where labradar captures its reading.  So since I am getting velocity at say 15 feet away how much of a difference would this make.  Might be overthinking it, but when I order my custom dial, I want it as accurate as possible.  More coming on this in another thread :chuckle:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Stein on March 28, 2019, 07:38:48 PM
Personally, I wouldn't be worried about the drop in speed over the first 15 feet.  For my load, the drop in velocity in the first 15' is 10 fps according to my ballistic calculator.  If I run the calcs with the muzzle velocity 10 fps faster, the difference in drop at 400 yards is 0.3".

You could always run the numbers for your load and just add that amount to the chrono speed and send it in as the muzzle velocity. 
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: hunter399 on March 28, 2019, 07:44:34 PM
These are just my methods and is not advice nor should be used.
First of all you have to know what your after .
Most velocity
Or accuracy
Or both
As only reloading for few years no means , no expert.
I almost always start out at max load data that hodgdon load data is .most load data out there is on the conservative side .unless you load for some very old rifles that can't handle pressure.
Seating depth I always start out on the short side .Everyone wants to put that bullet right on the lands.I almost always start out close to what factory ammo COL then start working my way to the lands .And I can tell ya some bullets like to jump to that rifleing .let accuracy tell you where to seat the bullet.
I'm always look in for the need for speed .
I just want to send it as fast as possible accurately.
Just some things I've learned as a New born reloader.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on March 28, 2019, 07:48:47 PM
Nobody has input on this part?

Another thing that has me wondering.  My pro chrony reads speed from where it is set up (12-15 feet) from the muzzle.  Most accurate reading would be at the muzzle.  only chrono that gets this reading would be a magnetospeed.  Not sure where labradar captures its reading.  So since I am getting velocity at say 15 feet away how much of a difference would this make.  Might be overthinking it, but when I order my custom dial, I want it as accurate as possible.  More coming on this in another thread :chuckle:
the pro chrono has an accuracy rating of +/- 2%.  That’s a possibility double the difference velocity at 12-15’ would make.   Just confirm your drop and correct velocity first when correcting values.
If you where closer I’d be happy to let you use the magneto speed
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on March 28, 2019, 08:02:47 PM
Im just going to pull the trigger.  Tired of the issues with my old chrony.  Any big difference between the sporter and V3 as far as magneto speed?  200 dollar difference in price.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Wolfdog2314 on March 28, 2019, 08:12:54 PM
Im just going to pull the trigger.  Tired of the issues with my old chrony.  Any big difference between the sporter and V3 as far as magneto speed?  200 dollar difference in price.

I just had this dilemma. I was between the two. My buddy said the V3 has some more options and better built. And ability to shoot suppressed with that (if you ever will). He then said at that point at 380$, you may as well spend another 180$ and get the Labradar. I figure I’ll have it forever and wanted the equipment to hopefully get me the most accurate load developments.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on March 28, 2019, 08:15:52 PM
Not sure if the labradar gets muzzle velocity or further downrange? 
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on March 28, 2019, 08:17:05 PM
The v3 will work on pretty much any rifle even with cans and brakes and has a better display. Also a hard case.  I’ve never used a sporter so that’s all I know about that.    I’m happy with the v3.  My gun budget is very small and I prefer to spend that $$ on components 99% of the time but I don’t regret the extra cost one bit!
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: buckfvr on March 28, 2019, 08:48:14 PM
I have the magneto sporter and have also done a bunch of shooting with Lab Radar........magneto does slightly change point of impact, so you have to collect velocity data, and then shoot for groups with out mag on, if you want the best groups.  No such issue with lab radar, less rounds to accomplish the task as you shoot for groups and collect data at same time, no POI issues.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on March 28, 2019, 09:04:54 PM
I’ve sent lots and lots of rounds over my magneto sporter. Bought a metal blast shield and sometimes it flys off but goes back on. It works very well for me.

As for load development I usually start .030 off the lands and run up to pressure with the chrono on then pick a powder charge and speed and work seating depth after that.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: b23 on March 28, 2019, 09:11:48 PM
Nothing against the LabRadar because I'm sure it's a quality piece, but for anyone considering going with one, if you maybe aren't particularly tech savy, you may want to do your research on how easy they are to setup and make work on a consistent and regular basis.  I've talked to quite a few very qualified high level shooters and it seems as though they either love them or hate them.

I bought a MS V1 when they first came out and had one before most people even knew what they were.  It worked perfectly and ease of setup was second to none.  My dad had a Oehler 35 and with the MS being so new and crazy simple, I wasn't exactly sure what to think of it so I ran it inline with his Oehler for awhile until I had confidence in the MS.  It didn't take long to develop confidence in the MS and within a couple uses of it, my dad quickly sold his Oehler and bought his own MS.

As everyone is aware, attaching, anything, to the end of a barrel will generally, big or small, change POI.  Whether it's a muzzle brake or suppressor, they all have some affect on POI, but I've never had it affect group size. 

Using stock mounted bayos, some of the top level ELR shooters even shoot with the bayo attached at all times.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: hunter399 on March 28, 2019, 09:21:39 PM
I just have one question for all you expert reloader.
If all you are starting .30 or .20 off the lands .How don't you know that lets say .50 off the lands is not the sweet spot for groups or accuracy.With every chamber being not exactly the same. :dunno:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on March 28, 2019, 09:37:03 PM
You test it with a seating depth test. You can only start at one seating depth.  :twocents:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on March 28, 2019, 09:51:01 PM
Ive been shooting berger Vlds and they like to be close to the lands.  If that doesnt work, move them deep into the case. 
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BigGoonTuna on March 29, 2019, 04:27:36 AM
I just have one question for all you expert reloader.
If all you are starting .30 or .20 off the lands .How don't you know that lets say .50 off the lands is not the sweet spot for groups or accuracy.With every chamber being not exactly the same. :dunno:
you don't.  however, i like to start around .020 off and work up to whatever max load i'm comfortable with.  this is for two reasons: firstly it's a safety measure, if you're at your max near the lands and go deeper, you theoretically lose pressure.  if you work up a hot load .020 off and decide to try jamming a bullet into the rifling, you could create a dangerous pressure spike. 
the other reason is easier load workup.  i don't have to worry about making a decision to go shallower or deeper, if i'm at my max OAL, it simplifies the process, i'll usually seat deeper in .020 steps to tune for accuracy.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Thehowler on March 29, 2019, 06:44:04 AM
I just have one question for all you expert reloader.
If all you are starting .30 or .20 off the lands .How don't you know that lets say .50 off the lands is not the sweet spot for groups or accuracy.With every chamber being not exactly the same. :dunno:

I am by far no export, but my rifle seems to shoot Accubonds and Nosler partitions the most accurately at .080 off the lands.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on March 29, 2019, 07:54:00 AM
I just have one question for all you expert reloader.
If all you are starting .30 or .20 off the lands .How don't you know that lets say .50 off the lands is not the sweet spot for groups or accuracy.With every chamber being not exactly the same. :dunno:
exactly why I do seating depth testing first then fine tune after finding ocw
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Stein on March 29, 2019, 08:20:39 AM
I just ordered the Magnetospeed Sporter, picked it up from Optics Planet for $175 all in with a coupon.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: wooltie on March 29, 2019, 08:26:41 AM
I'm going to work up loads once I finish bedding my rifle this weekend.

The approach I'm using this year assumes that a given bullet will perform best at a specific seating depth, using a proven powder, regardless of the charge weight.  I'm assuming that the charge weight will affect the up/down mostly.  In the past I figured out charge weight first, then moved onto seating depth, with mixed results.  I'm not going for max velocity, just consistent velocity and accuracy.  I'd probably just find the fasted velocity the bullet will go while maintaining consistent accuracy.

I've picked a few bullets and plan to do seating tests first, with powders I've shot before at mid-range charge weights.  I'm not using bergers.

Shoot three shots at .020, .050, .080 from lands.

I'm looking for the least amount of dispersion overall between l/r and up/down, but mostly focusing on the left to right spread.  Pick the seating depth that performed the best and fine tune from there.  Once I can minimize the right/left, and even up/down, then I'll adjust the charge weights.

I've used the chrono only in the past to find the flat spots, then load from there, but I saw that consistent velocity and low spread did not mean an accurate load.  Quite the opposite actually.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: buckfvr on March 29, 2019, 09:32:41 AM
I start at 10k off the lands provided the magazine will allow that.  You will find some instances where max mag length prevents you from getting as close to the lands as you may desire.  I have tested from 10 to 120k off the lands and have found Bergers and Sierra TMKs to do just fine at 10, even 8k, so I dont move closer because of magazine limitations.  6mm, 6.5mm, and 7mm have all done well for me at these set backs.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: timberfaller on March 29, 2019, 10:55:09 AM
Interesting read!

Just my way of doing it,  I first get all my reloading books out and look up the particular caliber I am working on.  Then take and average out the "Max" loads listed based on bullet weight and same powder I intend to use.   Once I have that, I back off a few grains and make up around five rounds each increasing in .5 grains for the next five rounds until I hit the average Max.   Keeping them all separate so at the range I know which I am shooting.  I know of a couple of firearms which went over "max" loads before they started to group and before any "pressure" signs started to show.  Once I establish a tight group, usually under one inch, that where I stop.   I let the firearm tell me what it likes and doesn't like.

If I don't get good results, I try a different powder or bullet.   Haven't had to do that very often though.   Usually come up with an acceptable group with the choices I've made.  Never checked with a chronograph, groupings are more important to me then knowing the speed.   Its not the speed that harvest and animal, its bullet placement and being able to place that bullet where it is needed.

I do set all my bullets as close to the lands as possible since I don't share my reloads with others.   Black markers works great for finding out the OAL.   And of course I record all my data!!!! once I am finished.

Some interesting things I've found with some of my firearms.   Some like a particular powder and other like a certain style of bullet.  Have one that loves round nose bullets no matter what, another that hates anything 120 grained.   Its fun to experiment but it takes time.

Good luck!
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: yorketransport on March 29, 2019, 08:24:28 PM
Here's my step by step process for finding the perfect load:

1) Find one of my old log books lost somewhere in the complete chaos that I call a loading bench.
2) Flip through until I find the last load I used in that chambering, or something close to it.
3) Ignore all past data that I've collected and decide that I can just make something up.
4) Sit back and decide whether to use Fed 215 primers, Fed 215m primers, or CCI 450s (those are pretty much the only things I keep around.
5) Stare at my powder shelf for an hour trying to figure out if there's any way I can make IMR 4198 work in what ever case I'm loading for. I haven't used that stuff in years, but I swear it's multiplying like rabbits. :dunno:
6) When IMR 4198 won't work, reach for the Retumbo.
7) Fill the case with Retumbo until I start to feel a little nervous, then reduce that charge by 5%. If there's still room in the case after that, it's time to dig out the H50 bmg.
8 ) Seat a bullet to whatever OAL I end up with based on the last time I used those dies. If that OAL worked before, it should work again right?
9) Realize that my OAL was too long then re-seat all the bullets .050" deeper.
10) Repeat step 9 at least 5 times before I get it right.

For testing my new load:
1) Find the biggest dirt bank I can at anywhere between 500 and 1200 yards.
2) Spin the turret one full revolution for case that hold 60gr or less of powder and 1/2 revolution for cases holding up to 100gr of powder. If the case capacity is over 100gr, just hold a little high.
3) Send one shot into the center of the dirt bank and see where I hit.
4) Make the necessary adjustments to hit somewhere on the dirt bank.
5) Fire a 5 shot group and track the "scatter plot" of a group.
6) If the group is under 1 MOA, pack it all up and declare victory. If it's over 1 MOA, lie about the entire trip and tell everyone on the internet that it shot .5 MOA.
7) After my initial failure, I return home and repeat steps 1-10 for finding a load.
8 ) Repeat steps 1-7 for testing the load at least 3 more times.
9) When step 8 is completed, list the gun for sale on Long Range Hunting and state that I didn't really have time to work up a load, but it shows a lot of potential.
10) Never speak of it again.

That's just me though. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on March 30, 2019, 10:54:55 AM
“When step 8 is completed, list the gun for sale on Long Range Hunting and state that I didn't really have time to work up a load, but it shows a lot of potential.........round count 400”

:chuckle:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on March 31, 2019, 07:20:00 PM
Today was a load development failure...

I seem to have miscalculated my starting load.  :chuckle:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on April 01, 2019, 06:03:34 AM
Ouch
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on April 01, 2019, 09:56:43 AM
Surprisingly that piece of brass seats a new primer like new.  :chuckle:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: yorketransport on April 01, 2019, 08:07:34 PM
Surprisingly that piece of brass seats a new primer like new.  :chuckle:

If they still hold a primer I'd say you're good to go, start loading! :chuckle:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on April 01, 2019, 08:33:12 PM
Surprisingly that piece of brass seats a new primer like new.  :chuckle:

If they still hold a primer I'd say you're good to go, start loading! :chuckle:
  :yeah:  :yike:

I pulled them down tonight and reduced the charges some.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on April 12, 2019, 02:50:23 PM
Well looks like .3 grains increments might be a little light, should have gone .4 or .5 increments.  I did find something to work with.  I had duplicates at
69.3 and 69.6 @3058
71.1 and 71.7 @ 3159 (71.4 3137)
72 and 72.3 @ 3205
Maybe something at
73.2 @ 3212 and 73.8 @ 3228.  Need to load 73.5 and shoot these three again.

Went all the way to 74 grains, and still no cratering or sticky bolt.  Pretty sure I am over max book load, so I will keep it under 74 grains.  Nice day at the range.  Hardly anyone there.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: wooltie on April 16, 2019, 06:02:11 PM
Any particular way to test different types of brass?
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on April 17, 2019, 09:38:53 AM
Any particular way to test different types of brass?
I haven’t specifically tested types of brass. Usually just work up a load with whatever brass I decide to use. If it works well I’ll keep using it but if it doesn’t last as long and expected or for some other reason I don’t like it I’ll change to another brand.

Maybe other people test different brands and compare.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Stein on April 17, 2019, 09:59:22 AM
I shot a simple brass test last week, 5 of each headstamp loaded with identical loads, bullets & primers.  I was blown away at the variation:

Federal       2,755 fps, 10.3 SD, 22 ES
Remington  2,730 fps, 13.9 SD, 35 ES
Winchester  2706 fps,  7.2 SD,  17 ES

That is a 49 fps difference in average velocity as well as a noticeable difference in ES and SD (half as much with Win vs Remington).  I normally shoot Remington for my hunting loads and unsorted for range stuff, fixing that alone will tighten up my groups for free with no extra work.

I'm shooting a similar primer test this week with standard, bench rest and magnums from the major makers.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: wooltie on April 17, 2019, 10:06:58 AM
I shot a simple brass test last week, 5 of each headstamp loaded with identical loads, bullets & primers.  I was blown away at the variation:

Federal       2,755 fps, 10.3 SD, 22 ES
Remington  2,730 fps, 13.9 SD, 35 ES
Winchester  2706 fps,  7.2 SD,  17 ES

That is a 49 fps difference in average velocity as well as a noticeable difference in ES and SD (half as much with Win vs Remington).  I normally shoot Remington for my hunting loads and unsorted for range stuff, fixing that alone will tighten up my groups for free with no extra work.

I'm shooting a similar primer test this week with standard, bench rest and magnums from the major makers.

Did your group size/appearance vary for the different types of brass?  Just curious, I'm shot a few loads with SD of 10 fps, but didn't group consistently at all.

Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: JBar on May 06, 2019, 09:20:09 PM
My cheapo pro chrony makes shooting at a targets, and through the chrono tough at the same time tough.  If I had either a magneto speed or labradar I could shorten this up at step or two.

@crunchy if you havent already bought a magneto be aware it will affect your bullet impact for groups. I had 3/4 moa groups with the magneto on and they blew up to 2 inch groups without it. Heres a pic of a group where shot #5 was with the magneto.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Stein on May 07, 2019, 10:25:11 AM
I shot a simple brass test last week, 5 of each headstamp loaded with identical loads, bullets & primers.  I was blown away at the variation:

Federal       2,755 fps, 10.3 SD, 22 ES
Remington  2,730 fps, 13.9 SD, 35 ES
Winchester  2706 fps,  7.2 SD,  17 ES

That is a 49 fps difference in average velocity as well as a noticeable difference in ES and SD (half as much with Win vs Remington).  I normally shoot Remington for my hunting loads and unsorted for range stuff, fixing that alone will tighten up my groups for free with no extra work.

I'm shooting a similar primer test this week with standard, bench rest and magnums from the major makers.

Did your group size/appearance vary for the different types of brass?  Just curious, I'm shot a few loads with SD of 10 fps, but didn't group consistently at all.

I wasn't paying much attention, but the accuracy has a had wall at the velocity spread.  I did the same thing with primers with a similar result and the groups did follow the SD, tighter groups for lower SD.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: wooltie on May 07, 2019, 10:44:14 AM
I put my barreled action into a new stock, bedded most of the action including the barrel shank.  Now, the gun seems to shoot many bullets rather well, even 180 grainers, which rarely shot anything discernible as a group.

This is a 30/06.  3, 3 shot groups @ 100 yards.  Each group is a different bullet loaded with .020" of jump at 2 grains under max.  180s shot well too.  Now I just need to pick a bullet to move forward.

From left to right: 150g accubond, 165g partition, 150g partition.  Partitions always have a nice vertical string with little left to right.  Accubonds have more spread.  180g sgks shot well too.  For killing deer and bears out to 300 yards, I think either bullet will work; the choice is just to satisfy the rational mind LOL. 

I'll take the one that groups most consistently.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: hogslayer on May 07, 2019, 07:36:58 PM
I would think that if you picked one of those bullets and did a seating depth/powder work up, it would shrink down to about half that..
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on May 07, 2019, 08:39:09 PM
My cheapo pro chrony makes shooting at a targets, and through the chrono tough at the same time tough.  If I had either a magneto speed or labradar I could shorten this up at step or two.

@crunchy if you havent already bought a magneto be aware it will affect your bullet impact for groups. I had 3/4 moa groups with the magneto on and they blew up to 2 inch groups without it. Heres a pic of a group where shot #5 was with the magneto.

yes, i have heard the stories with magnetospeeds.  I did finally pull the trigger and bought one, and waiting for it to get delivered.  I have a load in mine that is shooting half MOA at 200, but my prochrony is junk, and I would only get half my velocities.  The ones I did get were all of the place with about a 60 SD and 100 ES.  Not sure how a bullet at .5MOA at 200 could have such a spread.  Guess it is the crap chrony I have/had.  Once the new chrono gets here I am going to shoot again from 69.5 to 73 in .3 increments.  Verify what I believe to be the nodes and go from there.  I want it to be 71.3 which is my best grouping.  Then shoot 10 to get accurate SD and ES.  Order new dial from Leupold and done.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on May 07, 2019, 08:44:16 PM
My cheapo pro chrony makes shooting at a targets, and through the chrono tough at the same time tough.  If I had either a magneto speed or labradar I could shorten this up at step or two.

@crunchy if you havent already bought a magneto be aware it will affect your bullet impact for groups. I had 3/4 moa groups with the magneto on and they blew up to 2 inch groups without it. Heres a pic of a group where shot #5 was with the magneto.

yes, i have heard the stories with magnetospeeds.  I did finally pull the trigger and bought one, and waiting for it to get delivered.  I have a load in mine that is shooting half MOA at 200, but my prochrony is junk, and I would only get half my velocities.  The ones I did get were all of the place with about a 60 SD and 100 ES.  Not sure how a bullet at .5MOA at 200 could have such a spread.  Guess it is the crap chrony I have/had.  Once the new chrono gets here I am going to shoot again from 69.5 to 73 in .3 increments.  Verify what I believe to be the nodes and go from there.  I want it to be 71.3 which is my best grouping.  Then shoot 10 to get accurate SD and ES.  Order new dial from Leupold and done.
Why would you chrono all the other charges if you have a 1/2 moa load already. Shoot that load over the chrono and check it at distance and call it done.  :twocents:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on May 07, 2019, 08:50:30 PM
Just to verify or get more accurate info from what the old chrono was giving me.  I for sure have to do something with the .5 MOA load because of the garbage numbers I was getting from the old chrono regarding the SD/ES.  Loaded 20 rounds in total including 8 at the magic 71.3.  So it isnt throwing too much money away.  Make the trip to the range worth it. 
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on May 07, 2019, 09:12:59 PM
I’d rather shoot what you know is accurate over the chrono and then go long with it but each their own. Rounds down range are rarely if ever a waste.  :chuckle:

The magnetos are sweet.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on May 07, 2019, 10:41:27 PM
I am just not 100% how off the old chrono is.  Could a load with .5 MOA have that much of a terrible sd/es. If it is as bad as the old chrono showed I will have to make a change.  So shooting the the likely load range is just in case I need to tweak things.  I keep a log book and spread sheet for later reference.  Cant wait for it to get here.  Going to cut into my fishing time.
 
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Stein on May 07, 2019, 11:19:36 PM
My magneto throws the group way low but not any more or less spread.  I adjust the scope up, no big deal.

Having solid data really gives me confidence, one never knows if if was me or the round when you are in the 1/2 moa range.


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Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: birddogdad on May 08, 2019, 06:43:06 AM
Subscribed.
Just got my Labradar in the mail. Looking at the different methods as I just started reloading. Brass prep stage is done. Time to load. Looking forward to following...

get a battery brick for the LR~ they chew up battery life. it has a usb connection.. i don't even put batteries in the unit
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Wolfdog2314 on May 08, 2019, 07:26:49 AM
Subscribed.
Just got my Labradar in the mail. Looking at the different methods as I just started reloading. Brass prep stage is done. Time to load. Looking forward to following...

get a battery brick for the LR~ they chew up battery life. it has a usb connection.. i don't even put batteries in the unit

Good deal, ok I’ll take a look at those, thanks!
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on May 08, 2019, 08:50:25 AM
I looked at the Labradar, but decided for me it wasnt worth the extra 180 bucks over the Magnetospeed.  With my old chrono and the new one when it gets here, I only use them for load work up, and to get final numbers for SD and ES.  For that I can just shoot into the dirt berm.  I probably do things a little backwards though. 
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on May 13, 2019, 07:43:10 PM
Well I finally got the magnetospeed out to run my load work up.  71.3 grains of H1000 had an SD of 5 and ES of 15 which is plenty good for me.  I cannot believe how off the prochrony was. 

Question last go around I gave Leupold my numbers and had them cut my dial.  Should I do any validation out to 400 or 500 to verify the drop?  If I did, I am not certain how they would cut the dial different..  Experts say?? I think i have them my bullet G1 and G7.  Verify drop and give them adjusted G1 and G7??  Or is it overkill for hunting/shooting out to 800 yards?
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on May 13, 2019, 08:11:01 PM
Well I finally got the magnetospeed out to run my load work up.  71.3 grains of H1000 had an SD of 8.3 and ES of 15 which is plenty good for me.  I cannot believe how off the prochrony was. 

Question last go around I gave Leupold my numbers and had them cut my dial.  Should I do any validation out to 400 or 500 to verify the drop?  If I did, I am not certain how they would cut the dial different..  Experts say?? I think i have them my bullet G1 and G7.  Verify drop and give them adjusted G1 and G7??  Or is it overkill for hunting/shooting out to 800 yards?
personally I would just go mil or moa. Too many things can change your dope. You’ll be happy to did
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: BULLBLASTER on May 13, 2019, 08:16:40 PM
Well I finally got the magnetospeed out to run my load work up.  71.3 grains of H1000 had an SD of 8.3 and ES of 15 which is plenty good for me.  I cannot believe how off the prochrony was. 

Question last go around I gave Leupold my numbers and had them cut my dial.  Should I do any validation out to 400 or 500 to verify the drop?  If I did, I am not certain how they would cut the dial different..  Experts say?? I think i have them my bullet G1 and G7.  Verify drop and give them adjusted G1 and G7??  Or is it overkill for hunting/shooting out to 800 yards?
personally I would just go mil or moa. Too many things can change your dope. You’ll be happy to did
:yeah:
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jdb on May 13, 2019, 08:53:13 PM

[/quote]personally I would just go mil or moa. Too many things can change your dope. You’ll be happy to did
[/quote]would you care to elaborate on that? I truly have no idea what you meant by that but I'm interested
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on May 13, 2019, 09:08:25 PM
Yes, I wasnt expecting that as a response.  Thought, yardage markings on the dial based on the ballistics of rifle/bullet.  I would have to check my rangefinder to see if MOA is an option. 
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Biggerhammer on May 13, 2019, 09:13:22 PM

personally I would just go mil or moa. Too many things can change your dope. You’ll be happy to did
[/quote]would you care to elaborate on that? I truly have no idea what you meant by that but I'm interested
[/quote]

In other words. Don’t worry about the custom CDS dial. Zero your rifle at your preferred  distance. Range what your shooting at and just dial your drops in MOA or MIL’s. Depending on if your turret is Mil based or MOA based. You can be a stunt pilot and have a Mil reticle and MOA turrets. You can use the Mil reticle and just shoot hold overs in the scope or dial your drops with the turret in MOA.

Let’s say your running a custom CDS dial and you have a shot from a ridge steep down hill @ 600 yards. Best start doing some math because your going to way over shoot if you dial your custom  CDS for 600. Easier to range then use one of many ballistics programs or pre made drop chart to compensate for the angle, dial the correct MOA or Mil’s and shoot. I usually tape a drop chart for each rifle to the stock.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: jasnt on May 13, 2019, 10:05:55 PM

personally I would just go mil or moa. Too many things can change your dope. You’ll be happy to did
[/quote]would you care to elaborate on that? I truly have no idea what you meant by that but I'm interested
[/quote]at less than 600 yards your biggest factors will be exact range and exact speed and bc.  Now let’s say your range is off by 40 yards.  Now your 6” high or low.  Now let’s say the temp you did your load work was a comfortable 63f and your bullets where zipping along at 3000 fps.  Few months go by and your hunting bear in September and it’s 85f and now your load is shooting 3060 fps or its nov and your hunting elk in the high country and now the preasure is 26.35” instead of 30.35” where your dope was figured out? Or you start a new lot of bullets and the bc is a little lower of higher?   Any one of these things isn’t a big deal but you start adding things together and you could be 24” high or low.   Now try and stretch it out farther than that and your going to loose confidence in your setup


Learn moa or mil.  Be forced to learn all the proper inputs and variables that can affect point of impact.  You’ll have more hits and higher confidence.

Jmo
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: hogslayer on May 14, 2019, 02:04:20 PM
I reload for my hunting buddy. His max is 500 yards.  I have two different labels that go on the turret depending on where your hunting.  If you haven’t tuned your rifle to shoot 800 yards I would encourage you to.  Things can really fall apart past 600.  I have some loads that shoot .2 at 100 but 9” at 1k.  Some 1/2 moa at 100 but shoot 3” at 1k on paper. Not a rock or steel plate.
Title: Re: Load Development
Post by: Crunchy on May 14, 2019, 08:25:03 PM
Ive shot out to 725 where I hunt and the dial was fairly accurate.  I do recognize that the variables are endless.  The only way to be more certain is to purchase a few more items such as a G7 BR2 and/or Kestrel to minimize the mistakes from variables.
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