Not to stir up the pot anymore but SR Lapua palma brass is far from dominant in FTR in NA. Some shooters use it of course, but others don't. A number don't even shoot lapua brass.
The sport is constantly evolving and the rate of change is impressive - FTR is moving far faster then Open at this time. The SR brass definitely can work in certain situation but it is not a solution for all the possible loadings you will see at a larger NA match. So the best thing is to test all your components to see if that combo will suit you needs under the conditions you will compete in.
And don't be surprised if last years "hot load" is truly yesterdays news....
As for clearance, I suggest 5 to 6 thou PER SIDE for sports like F class and PRS. Lots of shooting, possibility of rain and dirt... things get dirty real fast and having more clearance is never a bad thing. Simple test... if the bullet doesn't fall freely into your fired case neck, you do not have enough clearance.... not for these sports.
Outside neck turning is critical to setting this up and maintaining consistency. So will proper annealing, Trimming and Chamfering. Pay attention to the case necks... THIS is where accuracy can be improved or drive you insane.
I love it when a competitor set up for no turn chambers and loading. Sooner or later, they will give me points.
I do not use SS or ultrasonic cleaning.... I see more problems then it solves.
For a point of reference, FTR rifles are now shooting with a similar level of accuracy to F Open rifles. The gap in drift is also closing... go to a big US match and don't be surprised to see FTR shooters winning relays and scoring similar to Open.
YMMV....
Jerry
