OAL questions.

[WDN41]

I'm reloading .380. Using a Lee single stage press, with Lee dies. I'm using
Extreme copper jacketed 100 gr. bullets with the flat nose.

Question 1. My Lee instructions say OAL .980" Does this mean MAXIMUM OAL
or MINIMUM OAL?
2. In measuring every finished round. I am finding lengths
from 0.977" to 0.983. Is this critical? Is it normal?
could this be caused by an "entry level" press? or less
expensive bullets, or my cheapo Harbor Freight digital
caliper.
I fired off a few magazines of these bullets, and they worked well my Bersa Thunder 380.
I'm also having the same issues with 9 mm. Same press with Lee dies, but
having feeding issues in my FNP 9.
Any suggestions will be appreciated.

[Exodus343]

It's MAX OAL
And your going to get variances as long as they feed and shoot well and safely I wouldn't change a thing

[Witch Hunter]

Do a Plunk test with your barrel. Those COL measurements are what the companies used to get those pressures. If you shorten the COL you will get more pressure. Using the plunk test, find YOUR correct length and if it is shorter than the data lower your charge and work up again.

[mark501w]

If it works it's good, you have a load that works if you don't have any problems it's good.