Compressing powder

[zero]

What's everyone's overall feelings about compressing powders? I've come across alot of loads that fit well within the min and max from a book, only to find when i measure it and dump it in the case that it's gonna end up compressing a little, and that's on mid loads. I especially notice this with the 303 british and 44 mag, i always just dump out enough to where it's just at the base of the bullet. But sometimes when i measure how much is in there, it's less than the minimum load! With the same bullets and cases from the book. I use a lee powder scale. Has anyone else had similar experiences?

[Ranger99]

all the books i have specify if
a load is a compressed load or not.
you should never use below the minimum
load because you may create a pressure
spike or at the least have a squib load
and stick a bullet in the barrel.
you could use a drop tube to pack the
powder in the case more compact.
i load a couple of compressed loads.
i just take more care and use more finesse
when loading them.
your loading guide should be specific
in stating that a given load is a compressed load.
you may also want to double and triple
check your scales, and/or have someone else
check your procedure if you're not an experienced
reloader. always err on the side of safety.
good luck

[Bigeasy]

A lot of common loads are compressed, especially with heavy bullets.  The 358 Winchester with 250 grain bullets come to mind.  There are several things you can do to reduce it.  One, is to use brass with maximum case volume, as it does vary between brands.  The other is use a long drop tube when filling a case, as it settles the powder a little lower.  Seating a bullet out a bit helps as long as it feeds and chambers properly.  As long as the load in question is a "book" load, you should be fine.  If you notice the  bullets in loaded rounds starting to "grow", or really have to crank down on the handle during seating, then that's too compressed, and a different load combination might be in order.  This was a classic problem with early 458 Win. Mag. loads using the 500 grain bullet.  Powder would become compressed to the point it was a solid cake, sometimes resulting in a squib or erratic load - no what you want when facing a charging elephant...
 
Larry

[Dee]

Same here. Been loadin'em for over 40 years.

[zero]

I've noticed it especially with PMC brass, i've got to go down a good grain or 2 just to fit. They always shoot fine, but i generally load mine lighter anyway. And I try to seat them as long as i can

[hillbill]

if  you dont have a drop tube you position your funnel over the case mouth and lightly sprinkle the powder in to the funnel slowly. seems to work about the same as a drop tube for me.

[Paul358]

Dont be afraid to compress if need be.