[WaywardSon]

All....

Couldn't really decide where to put this question. If it needs to be moved, that is fine.

I am thinking about different ways to track my results with different firearms and the loads for them. I may end up doing a spreadsheet for it...but I am going to bet that others here are doing the same (or similar) for their guns and loads in an effort to keep track or what worked...or not. No sense in making the same mistakes over and over if it can be helped.

So...what do you guys do? Is there any software out there intended for this?

TIA.........John

[JohnM]

Paper and pen.
They're still made.

[CrackerJim]

I've got a notebook with sections for each caliber with accuracy (and velocity for initial work up of loads) notes. Although I use a spreadsheet for a lot of things, don't want to take a laptop to the field (too tempting to set it up as my target ;)), so pencil/paper for me.......

Jim

ps one of my sons and I did take an old laptop out one time......."hit any key to continue" using my 45acp. Note to self, laptop insufficient as body armor :eek:.......sure was fun though.

[Josh45]

I use a small notebook.
Make comments about the load as to why I will not use it anymore or why I will use it again next time. If I like the way the load functions my fire arm and has good grouping, It goes down into a printable gun log and stays there for later.

[m3mh0g]

I have developed a spreadsheet to help me with tracking my reloading info. I know a lot of people say the computer side takes too much time,but I enjoy it and create complicated spreadsheets for a living. This spreadsheet keeps track of all my load data, my cost per round, and total cost for equipment and components. Take a look and let me know if you see a way I can improve it. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0AqWfShm23-3RdE9TTDZGdHVvbEpBV3pTZEotYTF0WWc&output=html<br />
<br />
If you would like a working copy, please send me a message and I'll gladly send you a copy.

[gamestalker]

I started out keeping records in the reloading books, but this quickly proved to small for the task. Now I use a nice big log book with dedicated sections for each action and the loads used, and how they performed. Putting it on the computer just doesn't work well in the field. Having to write it down in the field, and then transfering it to a program seems redundant to me.

GS

[WaywardSon]

I have developed a spreadsheet to help me with tracking my reloading info. I know a lot of people say the computer side takes too much time,but I enjoy it and create complicated spreadsheets for a living. This spreadsheet keeps track of all my load data, my cost per round, and total cost for equipment and components. Take a look and let me know if you see a way I can improve it. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0AqWfShm23-3RdE9TTDZGdHVvbEpBV3pTZEotYTF0WWc&output=html<br />
<br />
If you would like a working copy, please send me a message and I'll gladly send you a copy.
PM sent.

I appreciate everyone's comments. I also take notes in the field...usually on the target. That's fine & of course it works. But if I am going to have to copy those comments to another medium, whether paper or digital...I can do it a lot faster on the computer and then have multiple ways to manipulate or analyze the data with a few mouse clicks. As far as losing that data in a crash...that is why they make flash media. You can place a spreadsheet that is hundreds of pages long on a small flash drive or SD card...carry it anywhere...use it on any computer...email it to someone, etc. There are advantages to going this way.

Has anyone here ever used QuickLoads? I have tried without success to download it, but would be interested in hearing comments from those who have tried it.

Thanks again to all..........Best............John

[m3mh0g]

My spreadsheet is based in google docs and I always have my iPhone or iPad with me even at the range and they are completely usable for my spreadsheet.

[marksg]

I use index cards w/load info and keep them in the box with the reloads, make comments on the card at the range. I'll eventually try a spreadsheet, but i'm not to computer savvy.

Last time i tried to work on a computer was with a hammer,had to buy a new one:D. Although i like CrackerJim's idea

[dragon813gt]

I use the Lyman log book. I think some people go to far. A load either works or doesn't. But I am not a benchrest shooter that is going for ultimate accuracy. Accurate hunting and self defense loads are what I strive for.


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[popper]

Spread sheet with link to scanned target pics, but not as complex as the above example. Presently write on the target but want to get a dig camera with telephoto lens (or spotting scope adapter) for shot to shot pic recording. I've noticed many using phone cam to record targets.

[TexasShooter59]

I use a daytimer binder that is for the 8.5x5.5" size pages. I will print some things out like a spreadsheet page with a load workup on it, fold in half and holepunch, then put in the binder. Some of my targets I will cut out the relevant part to the 8.5x5.5" size and put in the binder. Sometimes, I will use OnTarget to calculate the group size, then print the image and put in the binder. I keep a different section for different calibers, and separate .223 bolt and semiauto loads.

It is still a work in progress as for how to organize it, but I can pick up the binder and there is all the information in one spot. It is working for me so far.

[WaywardSon]

I will probably end up doing a little of both. The spreadsheet from m3mh0g is excellent & I may end up using it. For my uses I would probably simplify it as I have no desire to track some of that info...and would make the sheets firearm specific. It is a comprehensive and well done model for sure.

I have also downloaded and tried Reloader's Reference which looks to be an excellent program that may cover my needs as well.

While I am comfortable with using the computer for all this, I also understand the attraction of the KISS principle and the 3 ring binder/notebook. Nothing wrong with the old fashioned way...and I do have a stack of targets:-)

Thanks for all the suggestions and comments!

[Havok7416]

I have developed a spreadsheet to help me with tracking my reloading info. I know a lot of people say the computer side takes too much time,but I enjoy it and create complicated spreadsheets for a living. This spreadsheet keeps track of all my load data, my cost per round, and total cost for equipment and components. Take a look and let me know if you see a way I can improve it. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0AqWfShm23-3RdE9TTDZGdHVvbEpBV3pTZEotYTF0WWc&output=html<br />
<br />
If you would like a working copy, please send me a message and I'll gladly send you a copy.
The only thing that *I* would consider an improvement to your spreadsheet would be to track less information but it's just my personal preference. Thank you for the spreadsheet and the time you put into it. I will definitely use my copy!

[BigN]

When I find a load that works great, I type up a slip of paper with all the specs on it and also the ballistics info for out to 250 yards with that load. I then tape the sheet on the front of the ammo box and those are the loads that go in that box. When it's empty, simply load to the specs on the front and you're good to go.

[WaywardSon]

When I find a load that works great, I type up a slip of paper with all the specs on it and also the ballistics info for out to 250 yards with that load. I then tape the sheet on the front of the ammo box and those are the loads that go in that box. When it's empty, simply load to the specs on the front and you're good to go.
As Jimmy Buffet once said, " Just like the Jitterbug, it was so simple it plumb eluded me". You sir, are smarter than me. Nice solution.

I can usually find a way to complicate matters.

[chrome_austex]

I use a spreadsheet to track every reloading session with live-fire results, however...

My 'current best/approved loads' is a pretty short list, and would fit on a single notecard.

[TexasShooter59]

While I am comfortable with using the computer for all this, I also understand the attraction of the KISS principle and the 3 ring binder/notebook. Nothing wrong with the old fashioned way...and I do have a stack of targets:-)

I do computer programming for a living and I chose the 3 ring binder! I thought about spreadsheets, and even a custom program, BUT as you said, KISS! Because I have more than enough complexity at work!

I do use a spreadsheet for load development, and I print it and put it in the binder!

[JSmith]

Excel spreadsheet. While I work with computers and am tired enough of them when I'm not working (so why am I typing here, you ask? Let's not go there...) I keep my data on the hard drive because I have so many paper records from various activities that I have no room for any more.

[WaywardSon]

That is definitely a point. I have two large file cabinets full of papers...throwing it away constantly doesn't seem to have much effect. I am starting to keep as many documents as possible on the computer...works well for a lot of things.