seating into the lands...,or not

[JeffG]

How do you all measure how a particular bullet seats relative to the rifling so accurately? Seat it out until you see rifling marks?...then set back from there?

Thanks in advance for all of your expert opinions! I've just broken into the realm of real centerfire accuracy with a 6mmBR Norma 1:8 barrel for my Savage "J" action.

JeffG

 

[NorCalMikie]

Savage "J" action? 8)
A lot of folks will split a case neck so a bullet will slide in the neck with a little force as the bolt it closed on a dummy round. That's one way.
The other way is to get a "modifed" case and the Hornady (Stoney Point) tool so you can measure the OAL of the loaded round to the lands. I prefer the Hornady tool because it's more accurate and repeatable. And that OAL will change as more rounds are fired so it's best to check it often.
As to where to seat the bullets, jump or jam, you'll have to try different settings to see what "your" rifle likes.

 

[Gearheadpyro]

I've used both methods mentioned by NorCalMikie, I much prefer the Hornady tool. It's so much easier to use, and it takes the guesswork out.

Pick up the Hornady tool and a "modified case" for your gun, you won't regret it.

 

[JeffG]

Savage "J" action? 8)



...Yea, It's the 110 silhouette model. I was "told" it was a "J-series"...anyway, my McGowan small shank 6BR barrel fit right into the silhouette stock...and I can't wait for the wind to stop blowing so I can do some load testing!

 

[MarkS]

I use both methods. some times the stoney point will lie you, I have seen this many time. In fact, today I was checking 75gr Amax in my 223. I got 2 readings with in 0.002", the third was 0.030 longer. checked again the same reading as last. I loaded a dummy round and got the true seating depth. If I would have taken the first two, I would have been 0.030" off the lands , when thinking I was touching. I seat the bullet until you see a square marks by the rifling, this will be around 0.020" into and go from there.



Mark Schronce

 

[Mikem]

I think the Hornady (old Stony Point) tool, modified cases, case headspace adapters, bullet comparator and my calipers are one of my most used tools. I use them every day I reload, its one tool that wont gather dust. A vary wise investment.
PS: Maybe Marks will sell you his.
Mike.

 

[LWolken]

Keep in mind that the stoney tool does not take into account the actual head space of the chamber being measured. My advice buy a tap and make your own modified case so it matches the chamber or use a dummy round that has been fired in the gun. Measure the dummy round to get your true distance from the lands to bolt face not from a modified case that has never been fired in your gun.

Lance

 

[TheBlueEyedBear]

I agree with Lance. If not doing your own, just send a fired case from your chamber to Hornady and they will make a modified case for you from that case. Cost is minimal and turn around time is pretty good. If I remember right, the cost is $14.50. Worth the time and money!

Barry

 

[MarkS]

Guys,

I have had mine for 10 years. I do like it, and use it alot, but it will throw you curve now and them.

Mark Schronce