Originally Posted by 7MMXBOLT

Have a look at this site, it will explain everything.

http://www.saami.org/

Originally Posted by bigcountry

Actually they do not. Can you point to where they do? They are good for dimensions and new ammo. But not sure where you are going.

Originally Posted by 7MMXBOLT

Exactly what I was referring to. Those dimensional charts give the min & max specifications that factory ammunition manufacturers need to follow in order for their ammo to fit safely in every "factory" firearm made in any particular caliber. Those same dimensions also give reloaders a baseline to go by. However, just because one type of ammo is longer or shorter than another doesn't mean they are out of spec from SAMMI. It only means the manufacturer choose to seat the bullet where they put it based on best over all performance and bullet profile however still within spec.

But you already knew this!

Please don't take this the wrong way kerrdog,

To me, when anyone ask this type of question my first thought is they need to read a reloading manual and visit the SAMMI site. No the site doesn't take you by the hand and specifically talk about why different manufacturer ammo are different lengths nor do they have a FAQ link and maybe they should. But by the same token, one should be able to figure it out without too much difficulty. If you know the specs, take a micrometer, and measure the ammo, one should be able to draw their own conclusion rather easily. If not....well you know where I'm going with this. I realize this was just a innocent question but it was the type of question that leaves me wondering if a reloading manual was ever read. Every reloader should read at least one. kerrdog, if you have read one or two manuals than please foregive me for sounding like an a$$ and I meant no disrespect. I just felt you should have known this from the get go. I apologize.

Originally Posted by Ridge Runner

exactly, the first advice I give to any new reloader is buy a manual and read it, then read it again, there's info there you really really need to know if you haven't done this before, and you'll appear smarter online!RR

Originally Posted by Pawildman

...... It just constantly amazes me the number of questions that are asked here that are explained in depth in a good reloading manual. I don't know if people are in too much of a hurry to just sit down and read, or if they just need some "I'll help you thru this" guidance. By the same token, if one doesn't understand the lingo or terminology used in a manual, this is absolutely the best place to get clarification. Sometimes, tho, I just feel that not enough "homework" was done.... i.e. digesting the info in a good, comprehensive manual.. and having a GOOD set of calipers... OK, I've said enuff.......

Originally Posted by DROX

Kerrdog,
You wrote:
I only did so because the bullets were loose after FL sizing. The second batch I neck sized AFTER full length sizing, and that tightened them up. No crimping involved.


What do you mean "the bullets were loose?" Were they flopping around? Falling into the case? This statement worried me some as I have never had that happen to me. Could it be your expander ball is bigger than it should be?

Is sounds like the folks here have given some excellent advise. Although I might add that extra kick could be you experiencing excess pressures due to your crimp.

Just my two cents worth!!! Be safe!!!!!