working up max loads, too full casings?

[Mike / Tx]

Like Unclenick posted I like to find something powder wise that when I have my max loads I'm right up to the bottom of the neck. Sometimes I will simply weigh out a listed powders max load and pour it in the case just to see where it comes to or how well it fills the case. This will sometimes help me choose what I want to start loads with.

I really don't like to compress a powder. I have through the years but not on a regular basis. There are just too many powders that fit what I like to have and most of them I already have on the shelf anyway.

 

[5whiskey]

Erikk pointed out something I have always observed. Reloading for 5 rifles now, and I have yet to see a published max load be the most accurate. I know there are some people here with much more experience who have loaded for 30 or 40 rifles or more. I'm sure somewhere along the way someone has observed a max load ( or even slightly over) be the most accurate load. I have not, nor has anyone in my circle that I know of. I usually find the best accuracy at around 1%-3% under max, and increases from there usually open the group up.