First batch and Minimum OAL question

[plightning]

Ok so I just whipped up my first batch of .303 with my new 50th Anniversary kit. I used 180gr bullets with 41.5gr BL-C(2), according to the Hodgdon data manual that came with the kit, the max load was 45gr for this powder, so I started at 10% less - 41.5gr.
When I was seating the bullets I was careful not to go over the max OAL of 3.075, so I kept it down to 2.95. I made a couple at about 2.91 when I was tuning the seating depth.

I was pretty pleased with the results when I noticed on the Data sheet that came with the dies, that there was a MIN OAL spec. For 180gr it was all in the nieghborhood of 3.000, there was no BL-C(2) spec so thats why i used the other data manual.

Now my question is, as i'm coming in less than the Min OAL, is this a problem?

My understanding is that i don't want to ram the bullet to a depth where it was compressing the powder, its not as I can hear the powder shaking around inside.

I imagine i'm ok (i hope), if so is that because i'm not using max load? as in with a max load there wouldn't be adequate room in the case without compressing the powder.

Any thoughts appreciated, thanks.

 

[sunray]

"...is this a problem?..." 4 thou isn't enough to worry about. Even with a max load. OAL has more to do with feeding than anything else.
The starting load for 180 grain bullets with BLC2 is 41.0. A half grain isn't going to give you any grief though. Don't worry about compressed loads. Some powders just are compressed. H4350 for one. You won't compress BLC2 even with a max load by having the bullet a few thou in too far. You do need to work up the load for the best accuracy.
Have you slugged you barrel? Those 180's may be too small. Enfield barrels can measure from .311" to .315" and still be ok. Hammer a cast .30 cal bullet or soft lead fishing sinker of a suitable size through the barrel using a brass rod and a plastic mallet and measure the largest diameter. Then use the closest diameter bullet. Commercial jacketed bullets are mostly .311" or .312".

 

[Ganderite]

There are two issues relating to OAL:

Feeding. The OAL should be short enough to fit the magazine, if you intend to use the mag.

Rifling. The OAL should probably put the bullet 10 to 20 thou off the rifling. This is determined by seating the fist round long and chambering it. If the rifling engraves the bullet, seat a quarter turn deeper and repeat. Keep doing this until the rifling does not engage the bullet. Then re-seat all the test rounds. Then see if these will fit in the magazine.

You are doing well. Don't be shy about asking .