Aulrich, here is a COL gauge that you can make for about 15 cents. Works the same way as the stoney point gauge at about $70 :eek:
http://www.mikeswillowlake.com/coal_gauge.htmMy page needs updating but I'll explain here how I do it now. It's the principal of operation that matters and you will probably find ways to improve.
I no longer glue the base case into the head of the measure case. I drill the hole a bit (a very little bit) under size and then slightly split the neck of the base case if needed to get it into the measure case. This way, once the bullet is placed in the measure case you can remove the base case to allow a more centered placement of the calipers (yeah, you are going to have to spring for those calipers :lol: ) Also, if the bullet is showing a tendency to move around in the neck of the measure case, split the neck with a fine hack saw blade and that will allow you to squeeze it tighter or open it to looser. (hope this makes sense and it shows the need to update my page!! :shock: )
Also, the next time you have finished loading up some ammo for a trip to the range, pick five rounds at random and measure them with your calipers. Surprise!! :shock: Most bullets have slight variations in the length of the tip. Especially soft nosed bullets and your five bullets will vary in length probably more than your planned set back from the lands!
There are devices made (collimnators? sp :eek: ) that measure from the ogive for a much more accurate measurement. The poor mans collimnator is the bullet seater removed from your seating die :-)