My first re-load ogive stuck in barrel

[rwsmith]

Bang your powder measure lever.

If powder "bridges", then what's left of the bridge goes into the next case with another load. This could cause an overload. I'd be certain this didn't happen to you.

I'm not familiar with your RCBS Charge Master digital scale, so excuse me if I'm missing something.

Does a primer have enough power to cycle the pistol eject a case???

Bang the lever twice on the up stroke and maybe to empty it also.

 

[Troystat]

I use a single stage press set up and I would highly recommend getting one or two cartridge blocks that hold 50 rounds each and get a powder measure, you fill the cases and put the cases in the block, then you can at a glance see that they are all charged. Since you are reloading a 45acp cartridge I would recommend the RCBS lil dandy powder measure and a rotor that gets you the charge you want, that way you can put all the cases in the block and charge them by holding the powder measure in your hand and go from case to case, then when you have filled all the cases you can easily look at them all and see that 1 they are charged and two that you have not double charged any of them. Good luck with your efforts.

 

[DWalt]

"The OP's description certainly sounds like a primer only situation, which is, after all, much, MUCH better than a partial powder load sufficient to stick one in the barrel and work the action!"

Is that even possible with a locked-breech pistol? I don't think so. Might happen with a blowback pistol.

For a very long time I have always charged cases (rifle or handgun) as a separate operation, usually 50 at a time, then visually inspect for uniform propellant level in the case - twice - using a flashlight or in sunlight. Positively prevents overcharges and undercharges or no-charges.

 

[DeplorabusUnum]

I think OP needs to be with somebody who is experienced. Sounds like first attempt and doing it on his own.

Being with someone who has more experience is never a bad thing, so your point is valid by default, but I've been reloading several calibers of pistol and rifle for years, and doing it safely.
This is the first time I've had a bullet stick in the barrel, so I appreciate thoughtful replies that actually address any potential problem.

 

[DeplorabusUnum]

I use a single stage press set up and I would highly recommend getting one or two cartridge blocks that hold 50 rounds each and get a powder measure, you fill the cases and put the cases in the block, then you can at a glance see that they are all charged. Since you are reloading a 45acp cartridge I would recommend the RCBS lil dandy powder measure and a rotor that gets you the charge you want, that way you can put all the cases in the block and charge them by holding the powder measure in your hand and go from case to case, then when you have filled all the cases you can easily look at them all and see that 1 they are charged and two that you have not double charged any of them. Good luck with your efforts.

Thanks. I'm looking at RCBS powder measures right now. About to get the quick change model since I do small pistol charges but also large rifle.

 

[bluetopper]

For handgun ammo loading I think a progressive press that indexes itself with a mounted powder measure is the safest way to go. Absolutely no use at all in measuring each round. Adjust your powder measure to the desired weight, charge the same case a few times, make sure it's consistent then go to town.

 

[ancient-one]

Whether you drop or pour powder into cases always check the cases for powder level. A look with a light will always show a missed or double charged case. It takes little time but is very important.

 

[STORMINORMAN]

I don't think I could agree less...

For handgun ammo loading I think a progressive press that indexes itself with a mounted powder measure is the safest way to go. Absolutely no use at all in measuring each round. Adjust your powder measure to the desired weight, charge the same case a few times, make sure it's consistent then go to town.

"Absolutely no use at all in measuring each round."?

...with this statement. Lacking a situation with a die designed to check the actual powder dropped the progressive press is the one most vulnerable to a partial charge or totally empty case.

Just in my humble opinion. I'll stay "in the sticks".

Cheers!

 

[DeplorabusUnum]

"Absolutely no use at all in measuring each round."?

...with this statement. Lacking a situation with a die designed to check the actual powder dropped the progressive press is the one most vulnerable to a partial charge or totally empty case.

Just in my humble opinion. I'll stay "in the sticks".

Cheers!

Especially for rifle loads, I really do want to hit my target load on every shell. I envision pulling a powder load into the pan and on to the scale, trickle charger to get right to the desired weight, then into the case. That will still be way faster than what I've been doing.

 

[sourdough44]

I do a little ‘click’ with the powder measure handle when down, avoidance of ‘bridging’ technique. Type of powder factors in, lower likelihood with ball or flake powder.

I’ve never dropped powder into cases lined up on a tray, 50/80 whatever. It seems to me the potential is there to skip one or give one two shots. That said, it’s all about a routine that works for you. Yes, a peek in the case is important after charging.

Brass prep(rifle) can take time, powder charging is one of the most critical steps. Develop procedures that ensure things are correct. Go at whatever speed it takes to load quality rounds.

 

[ancient-one]

Maybe I am too careful but I am comfortable with what I do. If I am loading pistol ammo and dropping from a powder measure I weigh every 10th charge besides visually checking the cases.
On rifle charges I weigh every load. I am not loading in huge quantities so time doesn't matter.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I'm using a Lyman #55 powder measure. I like them a lot. The RCBS Uniflow isn't a bad choice either.