Reloading log info needed.

I use an old fashioned black and white composition book. I know lots of folks here use computer programs, but I like writing my notes as I work.

I use a spiral single subject notebook, one for each caliber I reload for and each is a different color with caliber written on cover

I've created an Excel spreadsheet. Each caliber I load gets its own tab. It's easy to keep a running tab of how many cartridges I've loaded in each caliber. Excel's filtering capabilities also make it easy to say things like "Show me all of the batches of Xgr bullet I've loaded."

I've also created a summary sheet to try and track total lifetime savings.....but I have to admit that's more for fun than for being accurate. LOL

Like Hokie, I like writing everything down in notebooks too. Computer is OK for some stuff, but I guess I'm old school enough to want to see my info on real paper!

I use a ring binder for each caliber and I also keep my targets in the binder with the load info written on the target.

glc24 said:

Like Hokie, I like writing everything down in notebooks too. Computer is OK for some stuff, but I guess I'm old school enough to want to see my info on real paper!

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And a notebook is easy to take to the range!

Excel spread sheet.

Have a blessed day,

Leon

Welcome Wing Rider! Okay, I don't keep an actual "log." I write my load data on index cards that I store in my reloading die boxes.
When I go to the range to try out a new load, I take the index card with the load data with me. I record the results (velocity, group size, recoil, muzzle blast, excessive pressure or not enough pressure, function, etc.) on the index card while I'm at the range. Then, when I get home, I "clean up" the scribbling on the index card, even transferring it to a new card if need be. Then the card goes back in the die box. The next time I load for that particular cartridge, my previous data for it is right there in the box when I pull the die set off the shelf.
Oh, one more thing - I just have a basic chronograph, and it won't do average velocities or standard deviations. So if I'm interested in those things, I plug the velocities I recorded on the index card at the range into an Excel spread sheet when I get home. Then I transfer what I found out onto the index card - which goes back in the die box of course.

I think a 650xl is an excellent press to start with. I have had mine for about 25 years and still love it!

I am a software engineer and sit behind a computer all day... when I am reloading a computer is the last thing I want to see. So I use a single spiral bound notebook for all the different calibers. I like the plastic ammo cases for my reloads and put a sticker on each with the bullet, powder,powder weight and date it was loaded. For my .308 target rifle I also list the primer, whether the brass was trimmed and how many firings the brass has been through. I also put a sticker on each reloading head with the powder type and weight it is set for. Don't store powder in the powder measure... it will turn the plastic hopper yellow.

I'm an Excel guy also. Keep a spreadsheet for each load, sheet for each firearm, master firearm inventory log and a bunch of other sheets.I take target pics with my phone and insert them into a second sheet with the loading info. My sheets are always changing as I add other info I want to track. I save downloadable firearm manuals, reloading info and anything else I can to my reloading file.

All my info is backed up on Google Drive so I hope its safe. I can access my Google Drive from any computer and my cell phone which is handy when I'm standing in the store and wondering if I could use this or that that may be on sale. I have an extensive spreadsheet with all my loading supplies and loaded ammo along with reloading tool lists and cost analysis sheets.

Ya I'm a spreadsheet junky.

Excel Spreadsheet also. Have a separate sheet for each caliber plus keep track of powders, primers, brass and bullets I have bought. Also have my chrono data in there too. I then keep a 3 ring binder on my bench with all the printed info, so as I complete loads, write them in the book under the previous info and then transfer to excel to update. May be over kill, but it keeps me organized and quick reference.
No sure fire way, just gotta take each method mentioned and make one that works for you. In the end, whatever keeps you organized is what is right. Happy reloading!!

Just like bbqreloader, except I also have a page with how many rounds loaded per year. And on the inventory page, calculations on what I need to buy to keep an even inventory.

Excel spreadsheet for me. I keep a printed copy in my shop, and have empty lines that I can write any new data to. I transfer it to the spreadsheet every so often and reprint the last page or two.

I use both. I first write everything down in a notebook. Once I shoot the load (if load development) it's transferred to a Excel Spread sheet. I keep a separate file for each caliber, and tab for each bullet weight. The target is saved into a 3 ring notebook, and the Excell data is printed out and filed in front. I also use a phone app to keep up with the number of rounds I have loaded and round count on my guns. This allows me to keep up with the maintenance I need to do. This app allows you to keep a digital copy of your target for reference.

I like redundancy.

I like redundancy.



I keep *both* a handwritten notebook/journal *and* an Excel spreadsheet. The notebook is for "just in case", but I review and analyze all of my data on the spreadsheet.

I like redundancy.

I have 3 ring binders, print labels for the ones I use most, have them on a storage cabinet and boxes with that ammunition in them.

Excel or a database format can work; I use some leftover orange survey note books. They are small, the paper is treated to be water resistant; I write the date I went to the range, what the loads were, what guns were used, and how well did the reloads performed.

I like steno notebooks. They're a little smaller than an 8x11 (6x9", actually). They're spiral bound at the top, and you can flip the top page and cover underneath the page you're writing on, so they take up less space than, say, a composition book. With ruled lines and a vertical margin down the center of the page, they set up nicely for a multi-column set of recorded figures. They just work well for me ergonomically. And they're cheap. https://www.officedepot.com/a/produ...VCJ6fCh2y5wYaEAQYAyABEgKyFfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

I write a fair amount during reloading sessions. If you're just planning to make a note of your recipe and the date, then having something that fits onto the bench without hogging space may not be as big a deal. I keep the notebook out throughout the loading, because I'm frequently logging things like checked weights of thrown charges in the middle of long loading strings, or total cartridge weight. By logging such stuff, I get a sense (and a record for future reference) of how much stuff "moves around" during reloading, how much variability certain components or processes have, etc. So I need something that can stay open/out all the time.

I use a small note book. No charging, no waiting to boot, just open to the page you want and read. It can't get any simpler or easier. Also it weighs very little and if you drop it there is no danger of breakage. Just don't spill your coffee on it.

doubleh said:

I use a small note book. No charging, no waiting to boot, just open to the page you want and read. It can't get any simpler or easier. Also it weighs very little and if you drop it there is no danger of breakage. Just don't spill your coffee on it.

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Which is where my old K&E survey books will survive!.....

I believe for the first year, use a ring binder, asnd keep paper copies.

after that, it you're comfortable with keeping your info on a spreadsheet, go for it.

But that first year of loading, I firmly believe in a readily accessible hard copy. JMNSHO!

I just have one of those spiral ring notebooks. My reloading shop is in my garage and it is just simpler to use the notebook than to drag the computer out there, boot up, login, etc. etc.