Question for you guys. What do you use for a starting c.o.l. when trying out a new bullet? I have used the Lyman loading manual suggestions and then had to tweak it once I found the right load. In talking with the Nosler rep about 140 gr Partition loads for a 6.5x55 Mauser load for my Swede, they suggested a length of 3.150. My c.o.l. for my Sierra Gameking in 140 gr likes it around 3.060. Just trying to pick some brains before I start testing. Thanks.

I use mag. box length 1st & then work backward if needed. Unless you want a single shot, it has to fit the mag. box.

The loads that are given in the reloading manuals and other sources are normally based on a COAL at which they were tested. Many times it's the SAAMI OAL. It's best for a point of reference to be compatible with the specifications in the manuals.

quote:

Originally posted by ghostrider272:
Question for you guys. What do you use for a starting c.o.l. when trying out a new bullet?

I would say that most of us here use some method to find the lands, if the mag length is not the limiting factor. COAL listed in the manuals is supposed to be a cartridge length that will fit any gun and not put the bullet in the lands. If you use that then your bullet may be a substantial distance from the lands, which will always be safe and fire in any gun, but may not yield the best accuracy.

Again, if magazine length is not the limiting factor, best to find the lands and then decide how far off the lands you want to seat the bullet.