Ladder Test Distance and Variables

[blkexp98]

I want to work up some new loads for my .223 ar15 and had some questions after reading about the ladder tests.

First thing is will I get good enough results at only 200 meters? That is the distance I really have access to at the moment.

Secondly I have three different ways I use this upper. It is a 18" heavier profile barrel but I use either a thread protector, QD mount for a suppressor that was bored out to expose the crown and finally the suppressor. Knowing the ladder test involves harmonics it looks like unless I want to do away with the thread protector I have to do atleast three different ladder tests. The suppressor is a significant weight on the end of the barrel. Is there any good way to make the QD mount or thread protector consistant enough to get good results. I could make an indexing mark on the flashider and thread protector. The FS needs to be tight so it wont come off with the suppressor but to make things easier it doesnt have to be indexed or use a crush/peel washer. I could just screw the FS into the suppressor, leave it there and when I want to use it just hand screw it on but that would be a pain to move to another upper that has a FS on it all the time.

I had some trouble with seating the primers in the set of brass I was going to use for the test. The pockets were tight and i couldnt feel them bottom out. All are set between .004 to about .006 below flush measured with the end of a good caliper. Would it be more beneficial for me to make a new run and try to feel the primers seat? I did use a primer pocket uniformer beforehand.

Thanks for any help.

 

[jcampbellsmith]

I struggle enough trying to develop loads, so I only ever shoot my rifles with the moderators on.
http://www.thestalkingdirectory.co.uk/gallery/Member%20Galleries/p2948-Remington%20700%20SA%20in%20260%20Rem.html
The only time they have been fired without the moderators is when they went to the proof house.
Regards JCS

 

[Judd]

Further is better because you will have more verticle spread in your ladder and that is what you are trying to read. I have read 300yds is the minimum you want to use and I have done at 300 and 500. The 500 was easier to read but they both gave the same information.

Good luck, I don't know a thing about cans...sorry.

 

[blkexp98]

What would be the next best way to find some loads other than just loading up 10 or so rounds in each increment and shooting groups? If I went in say .3 gr increments that would be a pretty good amount of ammo to test once you add it up.

 

[jo191145]

I shoot Audettes at 200yds all the time. Works just fine.

Now if your shooting a 6PPC with a known bullet at the rifles preferred depth and hit upon a powder your bore really loves you may end up with a sizable portion of the ladder just chewing a hole. At least you'll be smiling ear to ear as you load all those five shot groups for comparison. ;D