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1. Any load which does not extract freely is far too hot.
2. If you have access to a blade micrometer, measurable expansion in the case head and web area beyond perhaps 0.0003" (compared to the original diameter of that case) indicates that you have exceeded the elastic limit of the brass. The case is, in effect, a gasket between you and disaster.
3. Any evidence of gas leakage around the primer (usually seen as soot) is cause to stop immediately.
4. Unusual flattening of the primer itself may be a sign of pressure, though other factors than pressure may contribute to this. In any event, if you observe flat, cratered or pierced primers, stop immediately, and find out what the cause is.
5. Any evidence of split or "ringed" cases (a ring is a shiny circumferential line which wll usually form just ahead of the case web and is due to the stretching of the case), except possibly a split at the neck clearly due to work hardening of the brass due to many load/disacharge cycles.
6. Indeed, odd handling or strange noises upon discharge of the firearm would be cause to cease fire immediately. The problem (and the road to safety- if you are constantly observant) is that charges are worked up gradually, and in most instances you will see a problem with the case long before real troubles occur.
There is an old saying that the safety of a gun is between the ears of the user: this applies doubly to handloading.
Good luck with your loading & shooting.
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