COL for 7mm-08

[Zeak]

I am using a COL length of 2.800 for Sierra 140 gr. btsp. The shell will not eject out of the rifle when not fired but will eject after firing. The cases are trimmed to 2.025, the cases can be full lenght and neck sized but they still  stick both ways. I have the Sierra reloading book and they give 2.800 as COL. I'd take a good guess and say that my COL is to long!!! What COL do you guys use for this load? I have polished the chamber so can rule that out. I am using 40.0 gr of H4895 with W-W std primers and am getting pretty good accuracy from this load with no signs of pressure. Any help is welcome.   Zeak

[PA-Joe]

I would back off to 2.6 and see if that works. Do a dummy with no primer or powder. You can also use an uncrimped case and let the lands push the bullet back into the case. Then measure the COL and subtract 0.02.

[Datil]

Zeak, Just reading your post, I am thinking 2.800 is just a little long
 for your rifle. This is just my thoughts on reloading. I have never
 had any dealing with 7-08. I basing My comments on loading
 308 and 243. Could be wrong I have a few times, just don't
remember when.  Marv.

[Norseman112]

Very interesting, these handi rifles have pretty deep throats and at that COL  are touching the lands? Dose it chamber easily? If you are in fact touching the lands  back it off a one thousanths at a time until it isn't.
then you should be fine.

Norse

[Zeak]

I took a black marker and blacken the bullet and it is toughing the lands. I will start backing off a little at a time. Thanks for the help!!! Zeak

[bill m.]

Zeak,
I would think that you would see scratching on the bullet if it were being wedged into the lands. You would see some sort of bite marks. Did you look real close? Shouldn't need a marking pen.

[jgalar]

measure to determine col.

Here is a cheap way to do it
http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting/oal/index.asp