Guys, I notice this alot and hope ya all could share your observations. While loading rifle shells or spitzers, I will set my COL, lets say to 3.3" for 270Win with Sierra SPBT 130g, for my first round. Just because I am anal, I measure all rounds. I get some wide variations due to the shape of the bullet. Corelokts are the worst. With the 270 example, I measured variations from 3.285" to 3.31". Lets say my max COL is 3.3" as suggested by the manuals, should I set my longest to 3.3" and the rest will be around 2.80"? How do you guys do it?

Reason I ask is when I find a load I like and produces good groups, I want to of course replicate it again. Sometimes, I don't have the same results with a new batch. But if I set my first round to the desired length, I am kinda constrained by the quality and shape of that bullet.

Also, for those with alot of experience, what brand do you see have the least amount of variations? For me the Matchking would one I see the least.

I don't worry all that much about it. If you use an impact puller, you're probably going to deform the nose. There is going to be some bullet to bullet variation - and yes, core locks are probably the worst - but if it's just the nose, it isn't a big deal. You're COL Will vary, but you're still seating to a uniform depth as the seating die is probably not contacting the nose.

I just use the visual trim to length in relation to the cannelure method. If there is a problem, you'll see it. It also seems to me that your trim to length is really your best control. Keep a dummy round for every batch.

I'm sure that there is a more precise method, but I've never needed it.

The dummy round is a good idea. I used to do when I started out having a dummy round but haven't done it in a few years. Can't believe I forgot about that.

Also, would a comparator from Stoney Point be a better solution? Sometimes, I am so cheap, I am asshamed.

[This message has been edited by bigcountry (edited 02-19-2002).]