Try to get along
The original question by
KFDiesel was a good one. Good answers were given. Perhaps the answers were misunderstood. Maybe the members providing answers overestimated the level of knowledge and didn't explain fully enough to suit the questioner.
Whatever the case, members were trying to assist
KFDiesel and he apparently didn't understand some of what they were saying. Those who made snide remarks about the resulting snit did not help anything. If you think another member needs supervision, please click the Report This Post triangle.
I've redacted or removed certain posts which were just too argumentative.
Please don't take offense when someone is trying to give good answers. The way to measure crimp, and the decision to crimpo or not, are fairly basic reloading procedures. I suggest anyone who does not understand them go back and read the loading manual. If you need more, then clearly state your needs on this forum. TFL is a great place to seek enlightenment. The more learned brethren will be as willing to impart knowledge as you are to receive it.
Back to the topic - - -
As pointed out above, the soot or discoloration on one side of the empty cases is usually a result of incomplete case expansion to fit the chamber. If bore size and bullet diameter are properly matched, the problem is likely too-low pressures. The pressure may be raised in various ways:
- Increase powder charge (not exceeding published loads.)
- Increase bullet weight.
- Apply a tighter crimp to allow pressures to develop before the bullet moves.
A combination of these is possible, surely, but it's best to alter one variable at a time, always being alert for TOO HIGH pressures.
I agree with those who opined that your charge of 231 is too light. We loaded a bunch of 230 gr. hard cast lead bullets over 5.3 of 231. It chronographed right at 800 fps from my old Colt Government Model and Elder Son't Kimber Classic, both with five-inch barrels.
Good luck.
Johnny