C.O.A.L question

[eridepilot]

This may be a dumb question. But, I'm trying to get the correct C.O.A.L for my rifle. Does anyone have some tips for getting this correct? Can the round be to short?

Loading .224 sierra 55gr spitzer boat tails for a ruger mini 14

[jumbopanda]

Any set of load data should come with a COAL measurement. Seating the bullet too deep will result in increased pressures and possibly less reliable feeding.

[FLIGHT762]

Sierra lists the COAL for the 55gr. SBT @ 2.250" in their 5th edition loading manual. They used an AR-15 as the test rifle. It should also work in your Mini-14. You will get different length readings when using a soft point bullet, it won't be precise.

I'd seat them anywhere between 2.240" and 2.250".