think is basically two reasons people choose PowerBelts, I believe you have just stated the number one reason and the second reason is because like in the states of Washington and Colorado sabots are not legal during ML season. And the next best thing that looks like a real bullet to most people is a PowerBelt.

Today - unless you are shooting a smokelss version Savage - there really isn't a good reason to stuggle to load sabots. The variety of sabots sizes and the new plastics they are using make them tougher than they have ever been. Thickness very from the Harvester "crush rib" to the regular MMP. Even loading the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th sabot combination should not be a problem if you are controlling fouling. There really isn't even a good reason to use a short starter anymore. Thumb pressure and your rod should be all you need.

I hope you find the answers you are looking for - but given a choice I would continue using sabots vs PowerBelts.

I really hope I have not muddied the waters - that was not my intention - but it really does bug me when i see someone standing on their ram rod trying to seat a bullet.