Has anyone used the stoney point gauge to check the bullet to lands space? Is this tool the way to go to get the best measurments? I cant get the same 2 readings the nosler way.

I've got one, and I really do think it's the way to go, especially along with the comparator. This will give you the ogive measurement (essentially the distance to the first part of the bullet that will touch the lands) , which is more consistent than the COL measurement since tips can get deformed. I've also found that most decent bullets like CT's and Sierras will only vary by around +/-.001" in ogive length. Their overall length will typically vary a bit more, especially on spitzers. The comparator is also useful when checking your loaded rounds to make sure all bullets are actually the desired distance from the lands.

The best method for getting the correct distance with one try is to push slightly on the bullet with a cleaning rod or dowel from the muzzle end and the tool to push from the breech end. Working them back and forth will give you an excellent feel for where the lands are. It works very well. It sucks a little that the tapped cartridges cost so much, but the ease of use is still worth it in my opinion.

Also, the procedure will need to be repeated with every weight and style of bullet since they vary a bit in shape .

amndouglas

I use the Stoney Point tool. I also have a couple of the RCBS precision mic gauges. In comparison, I like the Stoney Point tool just fine and it is more economical if you shoot several calibers. Once you buy the tool, the cases for any caliber are just a few bucks. With a little tinkering, you can get accurate readings with Stoney Point tool.

Has anyone used the stoney point gauge to check the bullet to lands space? Is this tool the way to go to get the best measurments? I cant get the same 2 readings the nosler way.

I too use the SP gauge. Think it is a great tool for the reloader, especially if you load several different bullets in the same caliber. Easy to use and takes all the guess work out of how far to seat your bullets.

Add me to the "I like it" crowd