Newbie Q; Case length

[Alex]

Just a quick question; I'm reloading 30-06. the case length recomended in the manual (max. I guess) is 2.494 Most, not to say all, measure between 2.470 and 2.490 after sizing. Is this normal? I won't be crimping this batch.

Thanks,

Alex

 

[Lefty Dick]

Alex: Set to trim to the shortest of all your cases, not only is case length important for crimping, but it matters also when accuracy is sought after. Having all your cases the same length places an equal amount of the bullet shank in each case thus regulating the amount of neck tension of each load.
It's a consistancy thing, if you make inconsistant reloads the end result will probably be inconsistant accuracy.

 

[Gatehouse]

What do you need to criimp for, anyway?

What rifle are you loading for?

 

[sunray]

Trim to 2.484". 2.494" is max length. 2.470 "is too short. In any case, having different lengths will give you grief. OAL will be different on all of 'em.