quickload question

[willyqbc]

So a buddy ran some numbers on quickload for me and the velocities did not match the powder charges I used. In this instace would you consider the pressure listed for the correct velocity, or the pressure listed for the actual charge weight likely to be more accurate? Im thinking the velocity figure probably as pressure is directly related to velocity.

Thoughts?

Thanks
Chris

 

[bigedp51]

To get accurate data out of Quickload you need a chronograph, you must change the burn rate in Quickload until the two velocities match. Meaning Quickload needs to be calibrated with a chronograph to be a close match to your reloading manuals data.

I just shake my head when I see Quickload requests in forums because there are so many variables in firearms and the components used.

Below from Accurateshooter.com

WARNING, QuickLOAD is a computer simulation of centerfire cartridge performance. YOU MUST NEVER just “plug in the numbers” and use QuickLOAD’s output for a load recipe. That is foolish and dangerous. There are many reasons why the data QuickLOAD generates may not be safe in YOUR gun. Before loading live ammunition, you should always check with the powder-makers’ most recent load data. In fact, you should check multiple sources if possible, and consult with individuals who actually load for that cartridge. Sierra Bullets offers free load maps which, in general, are fairly conservative. Even when using manufacturers’ load data, start 10% low and work up. Differences in brass, primer brand, and seating depth can make huge differences in pressure. Always reload conservatively and always double- and triple-check QuickLOAD’s output against reliable load data supplied by the powder-makers.

Quickload Reloading Software
Quickload Helps Assess Multiple Variables During Load Development
http://www.accurateshooter.com/gear-reviews/test-quickload-review/

 

[willyqbc]

Thnx for your reply ed. Just to be clear, I am not using quickload to just spit out a recipe and go with that, I work up all my loads safely, this is just a double check after the fact. We ran a load through quickload getting the velocities to match the chatge weight. Then using the same rifle, cases, coal, powder etc we ran another with the bullet weight being diffrrent....these were both previously tested loads. This is why I was confused...isnt the burn rate of a powder a constant regardless of bullet weight? It seemed odd that all identical components except the bullet would skew the result like it did.

 

[Cleftwynd]

A heavier bullet will increase the internal ballistic pressures therefore change the burn rate of a specific powder when compared to a different weight projectile. Usually increasing the burn rate and how clean it burns.

 

[bigedp51]

willyqbc

I have Quickload and was disappointed because at that time I did not have a chronograph, and even after getting a chronograph each load needs to be calibrated with the chronograph. And it is impossible for any computer software to tell you what "YOUR" rifle will do and it is just for comparative information. Meaning actual load testing is still the best way to learn about "YOUR" rifle and not computer guesstimates.

As a example below are the rockwell hardness results for .223/5.56 cases.

LC 2008 = 96
Lapua 223 Match = 86
Winchester 223 = 69
Remington “R-P” = 49

Below is the Hodgdon's webpage for measuring base expansion and knowing when you have reached your max load. "BUT" if I use the softer Remington case above it will show max pressure "BEFORE" the much harder Lake City and Lupua cases. And Quickload can't tell you that and even when calibrated it outputs ball park guesstimates.

Simple Trick for Monitoring Pressure of Your Rifle Reloads
http://www.hodgdonreloading.com/reloading-education/tips-and-tricks/simple-trick-monitoring-pressure-your-rifle-reloads


Before "computers" and Quickload I used the Powley pocket computer below and it was basically the same thing. And it gave you ballpark data on your choices of powders but used only IMR powders.

Bottom line, your workup loads will tell you what your rifle likes and not slide rule calculators or computer software.