testing without chronograph

[6bra1k]

well lets start by saying MY OPINION is that owc is a waste of components.
i do start with a simple ladder 10-15 shot, 0.3 grain steps that stop at about .6 over max listed.
( because all guns are diff. you may never shoot the last 2 or 3 depending an where your gun shows pressure)
single shots at 200, each shot logged on a dup target. you need a very calm day and you need to watch the wind.. while logging velocities is normal. one can proceed without one..
when done shooting all. take the target and circle shots
1,2
123
234
345,456,567,678,789,8910, till all are in 3's less first and last.
now study the groups. you are looking for groups with little vertical. the width is a variable based on the wind and you will have to make that call.
pick 3 groups, take the middle load of each and load 3 of those.
go shoot them, pick the best or best 2, load 5 of each and reshoot
pick the best
at this point you can tune the powder up and down a tenth or two, tune the length in and out
till you find what is best for you and your gun
h4895 is great in a 6br,
my opinion...no one is required to use it

 

[Gary C]

Kerry,
My Sightron has a 1/8 min ( I think) dot so I can center that inside of the black diamond or square
in the center of the 1inch stickers that I use.
Jeff,
I will read and reread your suggestions and will certainly use some or all of them.
6bra,
I am using IMR 4895 because that is what I can find and will try others as able when they become available.
I am not going to start getting serious with the testing until warmer weather.
I don't know what effect a 40-50 Degree increase in temp will have but am sure there will be one and don't want to waste the few bullets and powder I have getting load and seating data that I can't use at 75 degrees.
Your method is logical and will be used I am sure.
Thanks to all who responded with suggestions and advise.