Records...
Mr. Bernoulli--For long-term records I used to use a separate file folder for each cartridge, keeping loading records, targets showing groups, results from a particular days' shoot, etc, etc.
Then I happened on to the MTM Handloader's Log book. Keeps all that stuff all in one place, has a (manual) spreadsheet for each cartridge, for convenience, separates each cartridge with tabs--Really well organized. Since it is a standard 8 1/2x11" 3-ring binder, I can punch holes in the side of a target and clip it right in, as well as any other relevant material. (A cheap 3-hole punch is available @ any office supply store.)
The Handloader's Log is easily adaptable to any special requirements you might have.
(A side thought: I download most of my targets from
www.Targetz.com and print them up on 8 1/2x11 paper, so they fit nicely into the the MTM book. Or into my file folders in my old system. BTW, it's cheaper to download ONE copy of a particular target, and take that to an office supply store for copies, than it would be to print up a mess of targets using your own computer printer and ink cartridges.)
This Logbook has freed up a massive amount of space in my file cabinet, as well as keeping everything handy, organized, easily accessible, and all in one place. You could do it freehand, for yourself, with a plain 3-hole binder, and not buy the MTM book, but why re-invent the wheel when there are better ways of spending your time. It isn't that pricey.
For short-term records on each box of loaded ammo, I use Midway's Frankford Arsenal stick-on Reloaders' Labels. There again, I used to make up the labels myself, but (a) they weren't stick-on; I had to tape them to the boxes, and (b) The FA labels have spaces for everything I used to put on my own version, so, even having already invented the wheel, ready-made is easier, and not prohibitively expensive.
Now, what kind of data do I record? On a box of ammo it's what cartridge, bullet, powder weight and variety, primer, case lot, case length, COAL, date loaded, and any special notes. For the permanent record, it's all of these, plus the results in terms of accuracy, which firearm was used, any significant weather data, anything unusual at all, and any special notes. I also keep the targets that show the groups I shot to show how good/bad the performance of the load in question. Plus anything else specifically relevant to that cartridge, that load, that firearm, on that particular day. There are reloaders who keep much more extensive records, but that's about as particular as I'm willing to be. But with the MTM book, if I suddenly wanted to start keeping a more extensive record it wouldn't be a problem.
Oh, and welcome to The Magnificent Obsession--Reloading!
