All I'm looking to do is get a powder charge figured out at the range, then I will be going back to do a seating depth test later on. What data, if any, should I record as far as weather and conditions: temp, altitude, pressures? Thanks!!
I start with SDs and work from there. I am looking for SDs below 10 ft/sec and will expect
less than 15 ft/sec any time if I am in the right load and go from there.
Keep all weather data, and load data (Powder type and charge, primer brand and size, bullet weight
and brand, velocity and standard deviation + extreme spread).
I also like to shoot 3 shot test and clean between each so loads are tested under the same barrel conditions.
It sounds like a lot but more data will come in handy and save components when trying to get the ultimate load if you can go back and refer to your range notes.
More data also shows trends in your rifle.
With this process I can normally get the load I want with less than 20 to 25 rounds total.
IMO the chronograph is an invaluable tool to do this and can save lots of components, time and barrel wear.
PS: I do all of the initial testing at 100 yards and when I get good SDs and ESs I start stretching
the yardage out to its normal use (200,300, 500, 800 ETC).
Good luck
J E CUSTOM
