Don't be a lazy moron when reloading

[jjohnsonElknewbie]

Quick PSA that shouldn't need to be said, but I'm gonna say it anyways and hope it helps other guys not repeat my mistake. When your measuring brass dimensions with calipers, make sure they are bare. Assuming flat surfaces like the Hornady comparator and comparator base will yield the same measurement is wrong. They have their time and place for specific tests, but not for everything. I made this mistake over the last couple days while measuring the outside neck diameter of necked down brass. This user error overly complicated an issue and wasted some good folks time. It also exposed another learning opportunity for new reloaders, and I want to give a big shout out to @wind gypsy for the free advice, patience, and expertise, while I worked this out.

 

[RockAndSage]

This might fall into the category of instrument calibration...I bought my first set of check-weights after learning the hard way about the importance of calibrating your scales/balances regularly for powder charges.

 

[Jimbee]

Don't forget to put the primers in before you fill cases with powder and seat bullets. They won't go bang and some of the powder might fall out the flash hole. Also, don't bump shoulders too far back in an attempt to neck down brass, you might ruin a whole box of brand new Lapua cases. Make sure you put powder back in the proper container. Follow me for more tips and tricks.

 

[TradLife406]

Make sure you bump your shoulders back enough... then double check the case will chamber to be extra safe.
I learned that the hard way a couple weeks ago.
Measured, bumped the recommended amount back. But for my specific chamber it wasn't enough.

Also use a bullet comparator to measure COAL

Because you used a coal gauge for one bullet doesn't mean that'll work for a different bullet.. hahahah so stupid

Make sure if you're loading for one cartridge there's no similar bullets one cal size up near by. I accidentally made a 6 creed while loading 22 creed. Luckily I caught it. Right afterwards
Had a box of 108 eldms and 88 eldms open.