Target Interpretation: OCW Load Development

[seawolfxix]

Hello. I've been lurking the forums for a few months, learning how to reload, and I finally took my end product to the range.

The distance was 100 yds, and I ran out of sticky targets at target #6, so #7 wasn't a consistent sight picture. (i.e. I didn't follow Dan Newberry's instructions 100%)

Based on these results, is it possible to identify my OCW? Click Here for Target Photo. I tried to triangulate the groups with red lines and an orange dot.

The rifle is a Savage 12 VLP DBM in .223 Rem, the powder is Hodgdon Varget, and the bullet is a Hornady 52gr A-Max.

 

[texastrophy]

I don't think anyone could accurately interpret a ladder test at less than 300 yards. Especially with a load like the .223. The whole idea is to determine a load range that is vertically most consistent and at 100 yards, the differences are hardly discernible.

 

[bill123]

I don't think anyone could accurately interpret a ladder test at less than 300 yards. Especially with a load like the .223. The whole idea is to determine a load range that is vertically most consistent and at 100 yards, the differences are hardly discernible.

He's doing a, OCW test not a ladder, so 100yds is appropriate according to Dan's instructions.

I'm in the process of doing an OCW development for a .308 and I'm using Dan's consultation service. Best $45 you can spend. You might consider that.

 

[Mike 338]

Looks like you'll have a accurate rifle. On OCW or Ladder tests, you need to get your target waaaaaay out there (for a 223, 300 yds min.). You need clear separation in charge weights. Less powder = a lower shot. As the charge weight is increased, the shot climbs up the target so you'll need a tall target. The OCW occurs when shots jumble regardless of charge weight. As you pass the OCW, shots will continue to climb up the target with clear separation between charge weights.

This explains it.

Long-Range Load Development

 

[8andbait]

Hello. I've been lurking the forums for a few months, learning how to reload, and I finally took my end product to the range.

The distance was 100 yds, and I ran out of sticky targets at target #6, so #7 wasn't a consistent sight picture. (i.e. I didn't follow Dan Newberry's instructions 100%)

Based on these results, is it possible to identify my OCW? Click Here for Target Photo. I tried to triangulate the groups with red lines and an orange dot.

The rifle is a Savage 12 VLP DBM in .223 Rem, the powder is Hodgdon Varget, and the bullet is a Hornady 52gr A-Max.

What were the charge weights for each target?
It looks like you have a very large node there,after target one all were basically the same elevation.

 

[seawolfxix]

What were the charge weights for each target?
It looks like you have a very large node there,after target one all were basically the same elevation.

#1: 24.9 grains
#2: 25.1 grains
#3: 25.3 grains
#4: 25.5 grains
#5: 25.7 grains
#6: 25.9 grains
#7: 26.1 grains