Thread: Seating depth dilemma

Starting out loading for my Model 7 7mmWSM. Projectile of choice is 150gr. ABLR.

Measured the max. cartridge base to ogive length for my chamber using the split-neck case method and got 2.305”. That seems really long - the factory Precision Hunters are 2.185” CBTO and they’re too long for my magazine.

Until measuring, I thought the PH’s were too long for the chamber as well because the bolt is really stiff to close on them. I assumed I was jamming them into the lands, because I don’t get that with Fed Fusions or PowerShoks.

Back to the ABLRs…To fit the mag I’d need to seat them to 2.175” CBTO. That’s 0.130” jump. Seems way too much to me. I could single-feed until I can get the magazine modified…

I was planning to start at 0.040”, so 2.265” CBTO. That puts only 0.265” of bearing surface in the neck though, so I need to add 0.020” to achieve the rule-of-thumb of at least the calibre.

Where do the forum gurus think I should start? 0.060” jump, 0.130” or somewhere in between?