If you reload/handload your own ammunition, could you do me a favor and reply/comment on this for me?
If you keep logs of your loads, what data do you record and how do you record it, especially over time?
For instance, I might start out writing down the original recipe (e.g. Precision Delta 9mm 115 grain FMJ; 4.5 grains Titegroup powder; COAL 1.135″; mixed used cases; Remington small pistol primers) along with any other data I might feel is relevant about it (e.g. “half crimp” with a Lee taper crimp). Then I’ll go out and chronograph the load, do some accuracy tests with it, or whatever. I’d record things like the temperature, altitude, any other notes about the weather and range conditions. I’ll record what gun I used. And of course, I’ll record all the FPS that I get. If the chrono does the statistics for me I’ll record those else crunch those numbers later.
So, that’s “one entry”.
But then how about over time? For instance, do you ever chronograph it again? perhaps you check a hunting load in the heat of the summer but then again in the cold of winter to see how it varies and performs. Would you log this as a separate entry entirely in your log book? or just another entry under that load’s data?
So I guess what I’m wanting is, what data do you record? and how do you organize your data?
Please feel free to comment a length. The more detail the better.
Thank you!
Stuff From Hsoi 
I enter the reloading data in my shooting training notebook alongside the date. When I decided on a load to use for competition, I stuck some in the freezer and stuck some in the sun and chronoed 10 rounds of each, to ensure that the load “made major” (for IPSC) in a wide temperature range.
I tend to buy powder in larger lots (4-8 lbs) because there’s always a small risk that when you switch to a different lot of the same type of powder, that variation in manufacturing can affect velocity. That’s a big issue if you are trying to run as close to the “major” power floor as you can without going below it. The best option is to make sure that all 10 of your worst case loads (usually the cold temp ones) all make it.
OK. This made me think of a few more things to consider. Thanx.
You gonna be at class this weekend? I’ll bring the lapity topity box with my reloading database on it if you want to have a browse.
I use a large Moleskine, hipster that I am. I load mostly for rifle: .223/6.8SPC/6mm Rem./.260 Rem.
For each batch of ammo I write the particulars on an index card, then when I’ve shot the batch, I tape it into the notebook, with notes. Same if I whip up a few for load testing, an index card, and I write notes about each particular load on the card.
I write down chrono data directly into the notebook.
It also has the measured base to ogive length for each chamber/bullet combo that I shoot, as well as the micrometer seating die settings to achieve the desired jump/jam.
Finally, I keep a 3 ring binder of all my non-competition targets (mostly 8.5×11 or cut out and pasted onto same) with the relevant load data, shooting conditions, group size, etc.
All good information. Thanx for sharing!
I use a notebook in the shop, but I also keep everything in an old fashioned .txt file on the computer.
I recently interviewed Drew from rangelog.com and they are testing planning a reloading log to their system. If they execute it as well as the rest of their site, it will be very cool!
Cool!
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