Cartridge length

[pap]

I split a mt cartridge case two ways across the neck. Then placed a bullet in the case and chambered it in my rifle to the lands. Then measured the oal at 2.398. If I seat the bullets at 2.298 will this far enough off the lands to be safe? By the way its a handi rifle bull barrel .223 rem Thanks for any input.

[OR-E-Gun Bill]

I split a mt cartridge case two ways across the neck. Then placed a bullet in the case and chambered it in my rifle to the lands. Then measured the oal at 2.398. If I seat the bullets at 2.298 will this far enough off the lands to be safe? By the way its a handi rifle bull barrel .223 rem Thanks for any input.

 As I understand it, seating bullets "off the lands" measurements are in the range of 0.005" to 0.020" off the lands, in most cases.
The measurement difference you have shown, 0.100" off the lands @ 2.298" should work ok, as it is near the standard COL of 2.260".
In my Handi .223, I have found very few bullets (none under 64 gr.) that will actually "touch" the lands because of the long throat.

Bill 

[davem270win]

It will also depend on your load. Generally, bullets that touch or engage the lands will be harder to start moving and will create higher pressure. Rifles with lots of freebore can usually handle hotter loads.