Originally Posted by
TN Lone Wolf
Alright, I'll admit, I'm not all that great of a shot. Consequently, I don't necessarily compare my group sizes when testing groups of handloads. For instance, if one group shoots 1.6" at 100 yards while another shoots 1.4", is it really the load being more accurate, or did I happen to shoot a little better that time? That's the question I'm usually asking myself.
While testing loads, I always use a chronograph to record the velocity, as many handloaders do. I also record the standard deviation of the group's velocity to get an idea of how consistent my handloads are. However, I've often wondered how much the standard deviation relates to downrange accuracy. I generally go with the load that gives me the smallest velocity deviation regardless, but sometimes I wonder if that's the best thing to do.
What do you guys think?
There's alot of factors in accuracy like how consistent is your rest is it exactly the same each and every time ? How many shots in a group ? Is your barrel heating up ? Did you clean between shots ? You have to take out all other possibilities before you can make that call imo.