Results of Bullet Seating Depth Adjustments

NYDAN

Handloader
Sep 17, 2013
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I realize this is old news but the following examples are so graphic/dramatic in illustrating the effects of making bullet seating depth adjustments that I wanted to share them.

The rifle in play is a Browning Stainless Stalker X-Bolt in 7mm-08. Winchester nickel plated brass and Winchester primers were used in all examples. The bullet was a 140 gr Nosler Ballistic Tip.

The first page also showing the effect of boosting the powder charge after the bullet seating depth was determined for another charge.
 

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Very good depiction. Thanks for posting that up. Hence, that is why I tend to find the most accurate powder charge or charge I wanna work with, then mess with seating depth..

BTW, great shooting!
 
Very illustrative, good job. And from the velocities it.looks to be a very consistent load!
 
Nice thanks for sharing.

Question does your rifle have a lot if free bore?

Larry
 
Mud, My initial tests before load development with the 140 gr BT indicated contact with the lands at a C.O.A.L. length of about 2.845". However, after I completed load development I rechecked with a RCBS Precision Mic and I calculated the C.O.A.L. to be about 2.818". Apparently, I performed one of the two tests incorrectly. At this point I don't know which one is correct but it is a moot point to me since I found a great load for it.

If memory serves me correctly the SAAMI spec for the 7mm-08 is 2.800". Please don't hold me to that number.

Does that give you enough information to answer your question?
 
That is some great shooting. I am getting very excited to do the same tests with both my 30-06 and .308. I have found what I like as a powder charge, now to find the best seat depth. Thanks for the pics they are great.
 
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