Thread: When to re optimize seating depth ?

Hi Puffin thanks for running through such a detailed discussion. I was beginning to think this would be the only post ever to get no replies ! My post was oversimplified to start things. I guess I'm a hunter rather than a bench or F class shooter at present but I take an interest in this and see what i can use from the experts.

My limited experience is that the consistent fall of shots in a one shot powder weight ladder hasn't ever been replicated by 5 shot groups at any of the weights.

Even a single 5 shot group isn't very definitive for comparing the long run accuracy of two loads.

So, for ordinary guys like me the exercise of trialing different powder weights ( or seating depths) is more a matter of building irrational confidence than actual scientific determination of optimal reloading parameters.

One valuable application of ladders, for me, is proof testing. I now know that I can put in a full grain extra powder and seat projectiles 0.010" further out and bases might stretch or primers flatten a bit but not rupture. I've often got wild shots at the top end of the ladder but it's probably because I close my eyes and hope for the best once I go above book max. And I'm not so sure of my CBTO lands measurement that I'm certain the longest bullet isn't jammed right up there.