Thread: Trying something, Eric Cortina method of load development

I have used all sorts of methods - split case necks and close on long seated bullet, Stoney Point (now Hornady OAL gauge) method, Sinclairs tool for measuring seating depth (lies in cupboard unused), measure to the bolt face from muzzle with cleaning rod then push a bullet into the bore and measure from muzzle again deduct one measurement from the other. The last method is fraught with inaccuracies due to differing bullet lengths even out of the same batch. The Hornady method can give differing measurements depending on how hard you push the projectile fwd. Can sorta work OK if you take many measurements and then average the results.

Now I just use Alex Wheeler's bolt click method only. Extremely accurate and repeatable. Also useful for tracking throat advancement.

Only thing it won't work on plunge ejector type bolts with the plunger in place. You must remove the plunger which is probably beyond the ability of the average guy. None of my rifles are plunger eject.

Just remember the measurement is only a starting point for optimum seating depth.