Thanks for all the backup information.
Years ago, in the Hodgdon reloading manual, bought in 1992, so that gives you an idea of the vintage...
Was an article about "precision" reloads versus "regular" reloads. It showed with careful case preparation and case segregation which included trimming, primer pocket cleaning, weighing cases, etc al that group size was reduced.
I took it to heart and the biggest eye opener was the weighing of cases. The difference between Remington, Winchester and federal was substantial. Which in turn was relative to case capacity. The heavier case, the less capacity.
For hunting accuracy, loads a half inch better or worse at 100 yds on a 1" load isn't make or break on deer or elk vital zones in the field out to 400 yds. But it got me in the habit of trimming cases, always cleaning primer pockets and weighing cases, even virgin brass, and getting them as consistent as possible within any given head stamp.
I have not used anything but winchester, Remington or federal brass in 30 years. Quite honestly, buying factory loads in any of those brands and reusing the brass for reloads gives me practice and plenty of brass to shoot small groups with once reloaded.
