keeping records?

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notyalc

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What do you guys use to keep records of all your handloads? Is there some sort of book out there? im sure there are lots of computer programs but i would rather write everything down.
 
I keep a small multi ringed binder with replaceable pages.
It's small enough that it fits in my shooting box.
When trying out new loads I can record how they preform.
 
I'm using an old "day timer" book from about 1966 that my Uncle used to use. It is where I record the "proven" loads. All other "work in progress loads" for any given rifle are just kept on loose pieces of paper (recipe cards in an recipe box) that are then thrown out once a good load is found. I've thoguht about upgrading it to some for of indexed sstem that doesn't require me flipping pages looking for the load I want, but it has sentimental importance to me, so I keep usig it ... maybe I'll just add an Index to the back of it one day.

When working up a load, I'll sometimes use Excel to generate the list of stepped powdern loads or other variables so that I can work my way through it and check each off as I'm building a box of various loads for a day of testing.
 
I use a binder "Handloaders Log" and also has a stylized ntn or mtm on the cover. Got it years ago but I can't remember where from. When I need more data pages, I just copy additional ones off of my printer.
 
I also use a small note book to keep track, also tape one of the little notes that come with bullets to the mtm boxes. I have an excellent memory, it`just short term.
 
jawsman said:
i use an excel spreadsheet to track all my loads and how they preform.
Click to expand...

Did you create the spreadsheet or buy it somewhere?

What do you list on it?
I have been writing things down in a notepad but it would be great to have something on my PC.
 
jimmyjazz said:
Did you create the spreadsheet or buy it somewhere?

What do you list on it?
I have been writing things down in a notepad but it would be great to have something on my PC.
Click to expand...

Excel is bundled in with the Microsoft Office software which includes Word, Powerpoint, Outlook...etc...the spreadsheet was most likely created in Excel by the owner of the software.
Does your PC have MS Office installed?.....That would be somplace to start:)
 
jimmyjazz said:
Did you create the spreadsheet or buy it somewhere?

What do you list on it?
I have been writing things down in a notepad but it would be great to have something on my PC.
Click to expand...

Yes, I created my own for load developing.

What is has for columns: 5 "sections", each with a few columns ... Depending on where I am in the load development, I will sort it by either Powder Weight or OAL.

Bullet: Caliber, weight, type, maker

Powder: Brand, weight

Brass: Maker, Case Length

Primer: Maker, Type

Other:
OAL Length, Crimp (Yes/No), Avergage 5 Shot group size @ 100 Yards, Notes (used for comments like "near max, primer flattened", "vertical/horizontal stringing", "Compressed Load", etc...)

Only thing I don't include is Velocity as I don't own a chrony.

Once I have finsihed developing a load, then I'll transfer the chosen load to my Recipe Book with any notes I think are relevant.
 
Bassmaster said:
Excel is bundled in with the Microsoft Office software which includes Word, Powerpoint, Outlook...etc...the spreadsheet was most likely created in Excel by the owner of the software.
Does your PC have MS Office installed?.....That would be somplace to start:)
Click to expand...

Open Office has a spreadsheet, an can open Excel files.
It's a free open source office software package:
http://www.openoffice.org/
 
Thanks Johnn... And the rest of you for input.
I do have office and excel installed just never put the 2 together for this purpose.
It will definitely make it easier to go back and look stuff up.
 
jimmyjazz said:
Thanks Johnn... And the rest of you for input.
I do have office and excel installed just never put the 2 together for this purpose.
It will definitely make it easier to go back and look stuff up.
Click to expand...

I never mentioned it in the PM but in addition to reload record/info in a binder, I have an additional binder of record info of paper punch results. This is usually a scan of a 4"x4" piece of the target and info of the load used and distance conditions.

308NormaMag.jpg


scan0001.jpg


25-06Test-1.jpg


Saves a lot of question and retesting of loads because I can't quite recall past accuracy results.
 
"I use a binder "Handloaders Log" and also has a stylized ntn or mtm on the cover. Got it years ago but I can't remember where from. When I need more data pages, I just copy additional ones off of my printer. "

Me too.

The column headings of this page in a 3 ring binder are: Date Yrds Groups size No of shots gr. - powder Bullet Primer case OAL Velocity Notes

I urge a new reloader to start a log. It helps prevents making mistakes and it can prevent duplicating tests by accident.

There is a temptation to dedicate a page to each caliber. Don't do it. Dedicate a page to each gun. In this way you can note when a barrel gets changed or a rifle gets bedded, and see the changes above or below the line. You might be surprized how different some guns are, even though they are supposed to be the same caliber.

Some guns have many pages of entries. Some pages are only partly full after 30 years. If I have an impressive group, I cut it out and glue it to the back of the facing page.

In my case I have quite a few guns in some calibers, so some calibers have their own binder.

LOADLOG1.jpg


LOADLOG2.jpg


LOADLOG.jpg


LOADLOG3.jpg
 
Last edited:
I made up a excel spreadsheet about 6 years ago and if anyone wants it just pm me and I will send it to your email address.

I don't know how to post a file just pictures so if someone can enlighten me on how to post a file I can do that also.

Along with the spreadsheet I scan every target and keep a hard copy in a 3" binder for safe keeping.
 
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