whats the best way to measure OAL?.... measure from the point to the bottom with a micrometer?....
Uh, yes? Measure from the top of the point to the bottom of the cartridge. Use calipers - not a micrometer.
Better if you can measure to the ogive using a comparator rather than the bullet tip as the bullets could vary as much as .020 at the tip.
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Drop the round into your barrel and see if it fits.
I think Crappy Tire has their digital calipers on for under $20 again right now.
Might not use them for serious machining etc. but plenty accurate for most reloaders.
I use a mechanical one as well, work just as good if not better, usually can get a better quality mechanical for the same price as a cheapie digital, some people just have problems reading them over the digitals.