First time loading coated lead ... this normal?

[Walkalong]

The OAL listed in the manuals is useless to you when loading revolver ammo unless you use the same exact bullet, same exact brass and it's trimmed to the same exact length. You should be using the manufacturer's supplied crimp groove. That is the correct place to crimp that bullet. It's been a long time since I've measured the COAL on a revolver cartridge.

Indeed, although I do measure and log the OAL, I arrive at it by crimping properly into the cannelure or crimp groove and seeing what I have.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Indeed, although I do measure and log the OAL, I arrive at it by crimping properly into the cannelure or crimp groove and seeing what I have.

I should have made that clearer. I also measure the OAL and record it on my load spreadsheet but it's been a long time since I've used a new bullet in my revolver loads. My slight OCD wouldn't allow me not to record it lol.

 

[Walkalong]

My slight OCD wouldn't allow me not to record it lol.