Measure twice...

[powaybob]

but cut once only works if you can actually measure. I was trying a 45 auto load of 200 Rainier RN, 3.6 Clays, and an OAL length of 1.225. I measured the bullet lengths using a dial caliper until I got the dial to read 25. I went to the range this morning and could not get the rounds into my magazine. I finally realized they were too long and got to spend $75 for two boxes of ammo.

When I got home, I measured the rounds: 1.325. It is really important to look where the slide part of the dial caliper is reading! I assumed if the dial part of the reading was right, the length was right. Fortunately it is easier to push the bullet in farther than if I had to pull it out. I re sized all 250 rounds and we will see how they work the next time I get to the range.

Lesson for the day is learn how to read the dial caliper properly, and also to check to see your rounds will load into your magazines.

It was my first outing with my new Springfield Armory XD pistol, and I must admit I was impressed. I shot it a lot better than my Ruger P345 and SA 1911. My only problem is the pistol feels small in my hands and I have not yet developed a solid grip, but even with that I was much more consistent on target with it.

[kmca]

Wait till you put in the Springer Precision trigger kit

[cortayack]

I load for the 45ACP too.... My P345 shoots all OAL lenghts.....LOL! but my 1911 is more picky when it comes to OAL. I stick to 1.245 OAL w/ SWC for both guns. I never shot the XD but my P345 and 1911 are both good shoots. I'm actually better with the P345. I just started shooting the 1911 tho...

Also feeding the bullet into the barrel breech to see if it clears is another way to check OAL...

[nn3453]

Get a wheel gun. That way when you mess up the OAL on your auto loads you can still shoot it out of your 625 and you go home happy.

[powaybob]

I have several revolvers that I reload for them. I was just trying to point out that a degrees in math and computer science don't fix stupid!

Right now I am trying to get proficient with .45 auto, including different pistols and different ammunition types and loads. I am learning some of my lessons the hard way.

[Cokebottle]

Try this.... Ebay: Pachmayr Tactical Grip
I've got them, not sure if I like them or not, but they definitely add more mass to the grip if you have large hands.

[bohoki]

hell i would have single loaded them from a magazine if i had to pay $75 for a box of 45auto

generally one round will fit in the magazine no matter how long it is (within reason)

maybe you should pull one or two jsut to make sure your powder charge isnt 6.3

[Leon75x55]

Get a digital caliper

[ireload]

Powaybob also keep the contact surface of your caliper to make sure it's clean to get a more accurate reading. From time to time check your caliper's calibration. When caliper is closed, check the needle is pointing on "0" in the dial. Mine moved one time. It was off by .020" lucky for me I noticed it right away. The set screw for the dial became loose. After recalibrating and tightening the set screw I was back in business.

[AJAX22]

Get a digital caliper

I got my mittatoyo on ebay for about 40 bucks shipped.... best 40 bucks I've spent on tools to date. (and I've purchased lathes for that price before)

dials and slide calipers are great until you get tired, then they suck.