For new semi-auto pistol load development, I shoot a few rounds at 7 yards to get a feel for the load. Once I am happy with the load (tight shot groups around 1"), then I move my target out to 10 and 15 yards.
I test loads like I shoot USPSA stages - off hand. For me, testing shot groups beyond 10-15 yards are too much affected by the shooter's grip and trigger jerk/push to ascertain whether inconsistent shot groups are due to the load or shooter.
I only test shot groups at 20-25 yards after I got consistent
repeatable shot groups at 10-15 yards.
Here's a recent range test I posted at THR of 200 gr SWC with 4.0 gr of Promo (4.5" M&P45 with a trigger job). It did not produce as tight of shot groups as my reference 5.0 gr of W231/HP38, but it was my first testing - The W231/HP38 load produces similar groups at 20-25 yards.
