To me, a rookie, this was really informative. Hopefully there are no inaccuracies.

http://www.massreloading.com/reading_pressure_signs.html

-Mickey

Didn't read it all carefully, but skimmed over the places where BS is most likely to reside (reading primers), and it all seemed pretty reasonable.

As you are gaining experience, just stay within the lines. When you begin to see how things work, get yourself a chronograph (or get one sooner if you are so inclined). It's one of the best ways to judge how reasonable your loads are.

Thanks for having a look and your feedback.

I picked up an inexpensive (Caldwell) chronograph. Haven't used it yet even for fun or to test that it works as far as turning on and giving readings. It's the one that has the smartphone app for logging.

-Mickey

Common sense needs to be used when reading pressure signs. A modern well constructed bolt gun will be forgiving. When loading for something like a Marlin 45-70 if you see a pressure sign then you are well above the design limits of the rifle.

Anytime!

I've been using a Chrony since Lincoln was a private and we didn't have smart phones, or even cell phones back then. I'd sure like a wireless interface myself.

If the app is decent it should do all kinds of good stuff for you. I may just have a look at that.

Links to the app...

* Android
* iPhone

From what I see on the Android app the data can be exported (maybe in a couple different ways) to archive on a computer (spreadsheet, whatever, etc).

-Mickey

tag

Can you expound on this?

I recently stopped a shooting ladder because I got flattened and cratered primers in my AR-15.

There are just too many variables where primer appearance is concerned. Different cup hardness is one. Headspace can cause primer flattening, and cratering can be caused by the firing pin not fitting the opening in the bolt face closely enough. That doesn't mean you should ignore primer appearance all together, though. If its ridiculously flattened, then you're probably playing too close to the edge...or maybe even beyond it.

Thanks for taking time to explain it. The load I decided not to use had very flat primers whereas the one just .3 less didn't. I'm already using a load that's above the max so I need to pay close attention.

A bit of info on primer cup thickness.


http://www.accurateshooter.com/technical-articles/primers-and-pressure-analysis/

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