Thread: Variables affecting precision

Originally Posted by earplay

Prompted by discussion on another thread, I got to pondering if there was a way to visually represent the primary variables we typically play with when it comes to reloading and precision. After input from a couple of members, I updated my first attempt and have posted below.

It's not intended as a flow-chart or 'how to' of reloading, but at least suggests where you might get the best 'bang for your buck' when trying to increase precision. I also acknowledge that there will be different perspectives on the relative importance of different variables, however I've based my thoughts on my understanding of the data coming out of large sample testing discussed by Hornady/Litz et.al.

More than happy to be corrected here - I just like diagrams to help me understand concepts, and maybe someone else will find it useful.

Attachment 279070

I would disagree with your chart where you intimate there is less evidence that charge weight and seating depth contribute to accuracy.
They contribute a great deal toward accuracy the biggest contributor to accuracy is your base, the firearm.

I would say the biggest influence on accuracy is the person holding the rifle, when you have someone holding the rifle to shoot you are testing the combination of everything, shooter rifle, bullet, powder, primer, load, seating depth, and the influence of the wind, mirage and everything else.
A lot of things people do will be negated by the person holding the firearm and the conditions of the day.

This is like trying to sight your rifle in and everytime you adjust the sights it shoots in a different place from where your adjustments should make it go.
I see so many use up a box of ammo or more trying to get their rifle to impact on the target where they want it to.

Even in Benchrest shooting the person pulling the trigger can influence the outcome, even though the rifle is supported on a rest and a bench and there are multiple windflags indicating what the wind is doing.

Some can even see the variation in seating depth at 1k
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