Oh, that technique. I have tried that philosophy and found it to have some value, but I would recommend not taking everything in that article as gospel.
I have particularly found that putting up a separate piece of paper for each increment is not a good idea. In my experience, every time I adjust the rifle on the bags to align it with the next target my POI will shift slightly. Not much, but enough to invalidate the test.
What worked better for me was to stay set up on one target and fire one of each load at it, using a good spotting scope and carefully taking notes on the order and locations of the holes. Then move to the next target (or better yet replace the target without disturbing the bags) and repeat.
I am also not sure I agree with his assertion that seating depth and primer selection only provides “fine tuning”. I have had experiences where primer selection had a greater effect on group size than did charge weight.
I totally disagree with his recommendation to “Use magnum primers only with magnum chamberings.” In some circumstances magnum primers can really shrink groups in non-magnum cartridges. And not only with very slow powders. I have had excellent results when using magnum primers with reduced loads of faster powders.
Also, be aware that the bullet you select in his step #1 may turn out to never work well in your rifle.
Actually, my limited personal experience leaves me with the impression that given a good rifle and careful reloading practices, the selection of components is more important than the charge weight.
- Jim
