Cowboy wrote:I do seem to have a lot of air space in the cartridge that worries me. I am concerned that the powder lies flat that I am told can cause over pressure.
mate , use ADI load data for ADI powder and you can't go wrong . seat bullets to the listed cartridge overall length as given by the bullet maker , don't get sucked into seating projectiles out like target shooters do, as that can create pressure problems and is probably left alone till you've built up experience .
make sure your scales , measuring callipers and dies are all accurate and correctly set up . preparation of cases and accurate tools are essential for accurate reloading.
do every process in steps and don't stop or get distracted especially when measuring powder and filling cases .
1- clean cases (i use a hornady case cleaner that uses the corn cob medium)
2- full length resize cases in your press with sizing die
3 clean primer pockets ,i use a rcbs tool with stainless brush bristles
4- trim cases to length if required . accurate measuring of the case is essential ,as to long a case can give pressure problems . i use a hornady case trimmer
5-deburr case mouths with the required tool . i wipe the inside of the neck with a cotton wool bud to ensure no bits of brass are left behind to stuff up bullet seating
6- fit primer in case and sit in loading tray . once all the cases you want to load are sitting in the tray primed move on to the next step
7- measuring powder . do all the cases, don't stop until their all filled, and check every case is filled . a stuck bullet in your barrel from a squib load could really ruin your day . and the rifle if you don't realize and fire the next round
8- seat bullets . i sometimes adjust my seater up high and adjust down slowly until desired cartridge length is found . recheck the depth on the next couple you seat as slowly inching down with the first case plays with neck tension a little and the next bullets may sit higher .
9- go shoot stuff
this is the process i use , i don't think i left anything out , others may have different opinions . if you not sure ask or spend the time to check it out . there are helpful experienced people on this forum who will give advice if needed . just ask , check everything twice and be safe
