Does anyone check for bullet concentricity (runout) anymore?

[Chilly807]

Does the seater die play much of a role on the ones with some runout?

I don't think so, for a while I kept track of which cases had higher runout. It was the same ones each time IIRC.

 

[Timon]

I have the Sinclair one. It’s very basic, inexpensive, but very effective. I will use it if I introduce something new into my reloading system. I am about to use a new sizing die, I will be checking for runout on a few cases after sizing. I also periodically spot check cases, to make sure all is well.

It should be noted here though, that Eric Cortina did some testing regarding runout. He deliberately introduced runout into loaded cases, up to five thousands. He found that the runout had very little, if any effect on his shots. It was not a large technical test, but it does make you think about runout as a factor.

 

[Chilly807]

I have the Sinclair one. It’s very basic, inexpensive, but very effective. I will use it if I introduce something new into my reloading system. I am about to use a new sizing die, I will be checking for runout on a few cases after sizing. I also periodically spot check cases, to make sure all is well.

It should be noted here though, that Eric Cortina did some testing regarding runout. He deliberately introduced runout into loaded cases, up to five thousands. He found that the runout had very little, if any effect on his shots. It was not a large technical test, but it does make you think about runout as a factor.

I seem to remember an @ F-Class John test also, with a lot more runout being introduced. YouTube? That was when I started wondering if I was chasing my tail unnecessarily.

 

[jimmymac]

I want my ammo straight. Why would I accept anything else when this is easy to control? The only time I break out the concentricity gauge is when I make any sort of sizing change like introducing a new bushing or a different die. The gauge is a good tool. Would not be without one even though it does not get used much.

 

[Mulligan]

I have the Sinclair one. It’s very basic, inexpensive, but very effective. I will use it if I introduce something new into my reloading system. I am about to use a new sizing die, I will be checking for runout on a few cases after sizing. I also periodically spot check cases, to make sure all is well.

It should be noted here though, that Eric Cortina did some testing regarding runout. He deliberately introduced runout into loaded cases, up to five thousands. He found that the runout had very little, if any effect on his shots. It was not a large technical test, but it does make you think about runout as a factor.

I wonder if this test was with a LRBR rig with a pedigree?
CW

 

[Bronsin]

If you eliminate runout, then it can't have an effect.

 

[rwj]

I wonder if this test was with a LRBR rig with a pedigree?
CW

Good question. Consider that when chambered, the round’s concentricity (or lack thereof) can not be greater than the difference in the case neck OD and the chamber neck ID (neck clearance). That varies with each having their own preferences, but it typically doesn’t exceed 0.005”

 

[BoydAllen]

Short cases can be a challenge. Typically I overcome the finger joint issue by using both hands. Another economical solution that I have had success with in the past is to use the edge of a very large hard pink eraser to roll the case. The trick is to angle it so that the case is held against the stop as it is rolled.

 

[liseo]

Honest question, someone with more experience can clarify.
If the bullet not being perfectly aligned with the barrel axis doesn't interfere with accuracy, why do gunsmiths worry so much about getting the throat area and some distance ahead well aligned with the chamber?
Or this is apples to orange comparison?

 

[JMayo]

When using the Wheeler method to find shoulder bump it's best to have a straight case.
When using the Wheeler method to find
touch/ jam a straight round is imperative .

Other than that it quiets my mind when I'm working up loads.

 

[ronemus]

I check any time I have a change in the process, equipment, or components. I used it frequently when I was developing my technique, but now only as spot checks.

I use the Sinclair and find it easy to use and easily repeatable - KISS is the way to go.

 

[Murray Brook]

I want my ammo straight. Why would I accept anything else when this is easy to control? The only time I break out the concentricity gauge is when I make any sort of sizing change like introducing a new bushing or a different die. The gauge is a good tool. Would not be without one even though it does not get used much.

My feelings exactly and I would add the concentricity tool has made me a better reloader. It allowed me to see and measure where the run out was coming from and the ability to see if the corrections I made had any effect and how much.

 

[FarmallSM]

I check concentricity with new brass, then fired brass, checking my chamber. Check again after sizing, then again after seating. If all thats good I don’t check again till I change something. New barrel, new brass, new bullets, etc.

 

[PhilC]

I'll spot check a few as I start a batch, just for assurance that everything has been going as expected.

Things don't always go as expected.

How I use mine too.