Hornaday .44 240XTP- I love them. but.....

[Don Gordon]

 
Here's the recent trip result to the range with my pre-lock 1894 .44magnum.   8 shots, 75 yards.    These are my most recent handloads.   




Now here's the problem I am having.   The lower group is from some earlier reloading using the same components and lots.  What could make the older (12 month older) loads print that much lower and to the left???   Could it be a difference in crimps?? 

[Sweetwater]

Reckon that's a possibility. A lighter crimp would produce less velocity, less recoil and print lower.

Regards,
Sweetwater

[Tallwalker]

Yes, crimps, or case neck tension could cause that, and a different lot / can of powder sure could too. The other thing is that weather may have changed your bedding just enough to move the groups around. I  had a full stocked 243 for a while that drove me crazy that way. It always printed very good groups, I just never knew quite where thsey would be. It would move sometimes 5"-6".

[Don Gordon]

Thanks guys.   
   I am pretty sure it's the crimp, as all the other components, lots, and charges are the same.  It seems to be the only variable.  Thanks for the confirmation.       The two groups were shot during the same hour, so It's not a stock/weather issue and I've checked the scope mounts.   I'll load up the remaining 40 or so bullets and take extra care with the crimp.

Thanks,

Don