Thread: Working up a load workflow

Nowadays I usually have the semblance of a group in 15-25 rounds.

This is what has worked for me but I'm by no means experienced or advising this is the best way.

I usually use load data and quickload to work out what max is likely going to be around and then use quickload and OBT to work out the charge likely to meet that node.

Then if its not right on pressures edge I usually load 1 or 2 10 round ladders with half above and half below in 1% of total charge weight steps ie 0.4 grains for a 40grain load etc.

If it's close to pressure I usually load stepping down from max past the node load and then end up 10% below max. I only load one ladder for the first session so if I do need to pull loads it's minimised as I won't use pulled projectiles or cases in development (usually use them to foul a clean bore or as sighters) due to the different neck tension created. Sometimes I will load a second ladder to confirm/add extra data points.

I then shoot all loads in each ladder at the same target at 100 or 200 yards depending on what range I can get to and conditions. Recording where each bullet impacts by drawing in on an identical target I have next to me and recording velocity. I also let the barrel cool completely between shots as I want to know cold bore accuracy.

From the chrono I look for charges where velocity doesn't really change with powder change (this is where extra data points of 2 ladders adds security) I note any points and then I look at the target and see if any of these also have shots close to each other if they do line up then usually I use that group. If not which is rare I usually pick the ones with the closest velocity and do a couple 3 round groups at varied charges. This is why weighing charges and brass prerp and seating depths need to be precise so you can be more certain the effects are from the powder charge rather than variance in reloading precision.

Usually I end the 10 round ladder with a far idea of a group and then the next 5 shot confirms that I'm near a node. (this is often a sub moa sub 20fps ES load plenty accurate for hunting if you needed to get out. I then usually start tinkering with seating depth and varying the powder charge a tiny bit to hone in on the best group possible.

Usually I can hunt after 15-25 shots if I need to and usually another 20 I have the load dialled right in. Also once I have a load I usually do a 3 round group in relatively quick succession to see what the load does if I ever needed to use my whole magazine and to give me an idea how serious I need to worry about barrel heat effecting accuracy. Usually even with the kimbers 3 rounds aren't really effected but 4 or 5 round especially if you cook the bullets in the chamber while lining up the next shot they start to open up a bit.

It's also worth noting I vary rarely do a full barrel clean unless I am leaving the rifle in the safe for some time. I usually just use a pull through before and after each hunt and leave it "fouled" it's looks shiny and mint even on my main hunting rifle that's easily got 1000 rounds through it now (although I'd be interested to borescope it). Do usually do a full clean probably every 200 rounds when I'm using factory ammo or I do it every 100 rounds when I reprep my 100 pieces of brass and recheck load development hasn't changed.

This is all targetted at modern rifles so not sure if its helpful but figured I'd post it incase it helps someone.