keeping a log

[hdwhit]

One more field to consider: Date.

I bought 5,000 labels at Staples decades ago (they still stick) and when I get ready to load a batch of cartridges, I will pre-print labels with the data shown below and stick one on the outside of every box.

Cartridge type
Date loaded
Primer maker and type
Powder type and weight
Bullet maker, weight and configuration

Along with space for a handwritten number to identify the box.

The handwritten number ties to the checklist I complete when reloading that has my reloading procedures as well as space for range conditions, chronograph reading and comments. The checklist is kept in a binder in the cabinet above my reloading bench so I can quickly associate any cartridge with a record of the components and the process used to make it.

I had not been recording OAL because once I got the bullet seater plugs dialed in, my rifles would happily feed the .30 Carbine, .223 and 5.7 mm Johnson rounds I made. Now that I'm moving into 9 mm Parabellum, I can see I will need to add a field for that.

 

[280shooter]

I started writing everything down.I forgot more them I remember anymore,
I have folders for every thing I load.I have folders for 221 ,233, 280.8mm.38sp.357mag,9mm.44sp.44mag.
And in them folders, I keep targets that I shot with the load that I worked up.its all wrote down on the target,bullet weight, powder charge, col.no guessing.
.

 

[DudeRick]

There is no way for me to keep track of the number of times the brass has been reloaded. Range brass gets mixed into and out of my brass with every range visit.

 

[sage5907]

I don't keep a log like you're suggesting because for me it would be too time consuming with what I would consider to be meaningless information. What I do is to keep a computer spreadsheet which lists each rifle with each bullet, powder and charge combination target group at 200 meters and by giving each combination a one to five star rating just like I would rate staying in a motel. For example, if a particular load shoots ragged 1 inch groups I give it a ***** rating. If it shoots consistent 2 inch groups I give it a **** rating. If it shoots 3 inch groups I give it a *** rating. If it shoots poorer than that I don't record the combination and I don't use that load again. If you're inspecting each case all the way through the sizing, annealing, cleaning and bullet seating process you should be weeding out each case that shouldn't be used again.

 

[Reloadron]

I print my load data on my own labels using Avery Design and Print software.


When I load I just stick a label on the flip top ammo box.

Lately I have been using some old pre printed labels I found. If I am using the Chronograph mine does a printout so I shove the printout with any notes jotted down in the ammo box. Also how well it shot in which rifle.

Ron