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Old March 28, 2011, 01:00 AM   #12
noylj
Senior Member
 
Join Date: October 21, 2007
Location: Between CA and NM
Posts: 856
COL in loading manuals

I'm sorry, but the COL in the manuals is either a recommended minimum (not to load shorter) or is a SAAMI recommendation that, again, is a not to load shorter. It is strictly a "guideline only."
I will always load long. I will always ensure that my expander opens the case up to 0.001-0.002" less than bullet OD. This is where you get proper bullet-to-case tension to prevent set-back. If your expander leaves the case ID less than this, then you get bullet bulge and need an FCD to iron things out.

The following appears in several loading manuals:

SPECIAL NOTE ON CARTRIDGE OVERALL LENGTH “COL”
It is important to note that the SAAMI “COL” values are for the firearms and ammunition manufacturers industry and must be seen as a guideline only.
The individual reloader is free to adjust this dimension to suit their particular firearm-component-weapon combination.
This parameter is determined by various dimensions such as
1) magazine length (space),
2) freebore-lead dimensions of the barrel,
3) ogive or profile of the projectile and
4) position of cannelure or crimp groove.
Western Powders would like to thank the
• Always begin loading at the minimum "Start Load".
• Watch for signs of excessive pressure.
• Increase in 2% increments towards the Maximum Load.
• Never exceed the Maximum Load.
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