Using a Barrel to set up headspace and check O.A.L. with your bullet

[Walkalong]

I haven't loaded .400 Corbon in a while. I had to set it up again using the new LNL. I set up the headspace using the Fire Dragon barrel I use.

The barrel can also be used to determine if your seating depth with a given bullet is short enough to fully chamber.

A question often posted is why reloads won't chamber. Often times the answer is the O.A.L. with the bullet used is too long. The bullet is getting into the lands and holding it back from fully chambering.

This pic is often used to demonstrate proper headspace and when a bullet is seated too long.

.400 Corbon - Fire Dragon Barrel. The case head is about .005 to .006 below flush. Plenty of clearance.

 

[something vague]

How are you getting that measurement accurately? What are you using and how?

 

[Walkalong]

The piece that sticks out of the bottom of your dial caliper will get you a pretty good measurement.

Of course, if you have a depth gauge with a short enough stem, that is best. I just used my caliper.

 

[sandsage]

Walkalong -

Good, usefull, clear information.

Thank you for taking the time to put this post together!

 

[Walkalong]

I have since adjusted my sizer to get .001 to .003 below flush. So far that is working quite well.

 

[SSN Vet]

nice graphics... thanks for posting them

 

[Deavis]

a thickness gage placed on the back of the round and using your finger to feel for flush will get you within 0.001" if you don't want to use that super duper dial caliper thingy we should all have. Nice write up, it might be supplemented with a stepped case gage analysis as well.

 

[Seedtick]

As often as this subject comes up....

This looks like Sticky material to me.


ST