Thread: Loose projectile

Its possible as I didn't have any ammo carriers available so had them loose.

Originally Posted by Happy Jack

Its possible as I didn't have any ammo carriers available so had them loose.

Greetings @Happy Jack,
Looks like the cavalry in the form of dannyb galloping over the horizon is a little delayed so here is something you can try yourself. I am pretty sure that your problem is seating the projectile too deep although other things may also be involved. You can check the maximum cartridge length quite easily. You need a cleaning rod, some callipers and a bit of tape. Set your rifle up in a vice nice and steady with the bolt in and cocked. Your cleaning rod needs to have a flat tip. I use my old Parker Hale rods but if you have a later type with the female threads you will need a spear point jag with the front filed flat. Run the cleaning rod down the barrel until it touches the bolt face. Put the bit of tape on the rod flush with the muzzle. Next pull the rod back a bit and slide a projectile point first into the start of the rifling. This is a bit tricky with an action with front lugs. I usually hold the rifle muzzle down and drop the projectile in. Hold the projectile in place with another rod and slide the cleaning rod in to touch the projectile tip. Now without bumping anything measure the distance between the tape and the muzzle. This is your cartridge overall length with the projectile touching the lands. Deduct 1mm (0.040) from this measurement and you have a good place to start. dannyb will do this in his own and likely more precise way plus check all the other items when he arrives but this should get you started.
Regards Grandpamac.