Like some other folks here, I enjoy trying to develop and identify handloads that my rifles will shoot well if the dummy on the trigger doesn't find some way to muck things up.
Only 100 yards, but the first 6 shots on the center are about as good as I'm going to be able to produce. The group is a tad low and a tad left, but that's both common and fine when working with different loads. Windage and elevation adjustments can obviously be made if consistency is found to be there.
Notice what happens with shots 7,8,9 and 10 though. What's happening here is that with the orange circles, I'm now guessing. How much difference in hold to hit the 13/16 orange circle? When does the sight picture look "right"?
My point in posting here is that, in shooting at those circles? They're all hits, but barely. That is due not to the load, but rather to my best guesstimates. And look where those shots are hitting when you compare placement on the four. What was lost here for comparative purposes is the precise definition of the focal points for reticle alignment that the center diamond provides. Those corners, for lack of better words, "force" a more precise and consistent reticle alignment, all else being equal, and not simply what "looks the same".
Member byf43 turned me on to this target. For what it's worth, if there's a better target for sight in and load development type work, I personally haven't found it yet. If you're spending good time and good money on your handloads, it can help to take all of that expenditure one step further, and give some consideration to what you're shooting your handiwork at. A good target can make a positive difference in your results. It has for me at least.
The target below has 1/4 inch grids. 43 also has posted a 1/2 inch grid version of his in the same configuration for those who prefer a target that's less "busy". The orange that is pictured is an addition from a highlighter as I find it to be a help with definition for my nowadays older eyes.
Now byf43 MIGHT just be conned into posting his targets again in the next few weeks if somebody should ask, with deer season not too away and all, and a lot of guys starting to be thinking about new rifles and fall sight in.
You may want to consider giving them a try.
Only 100 yards, but the first 6 shots on the center are about as good as I'm going to be able to produce. The group is a tad low and a tad left, but that's both common and fine when working with different loads. Windage and elevation adjustments can obviously be made if consistency is found to be there.
Notice what happens with shots 7,8,9 and 10 though. What's happening here is that with the orange circles, I'm now guessing. How much difference in hold to hit the 13/16 orange circle? When does the sight picture look "right"?
My point in posting here is that, in shooting at those circles? They're all hits, but barely. That is due not to the load, but rather to my best guesstimates. And look where those shots are hitting when you compare placement on the four. What was lost here for comparative purposes is the precise definition of the focal points for reticle alignment that the center diamond provides. Those corners, for lack of better words, "force" a more precise and consistent reticle alignment, all else being equal, and not simply what "looks the same".
Member byf43 turned me on to this target. For what it's worth, if there's a better target for sight in and load development type work, I personally haven't found it yet. If you're spending good time and good money on your handloads, it can help to take all of that expenditure one step further, and give some consideration to what you're shooting your handiwork at. A good target can make a positive difference in your results. It has for me at least.
The target below has 1/4 inch grids. 43 also has posted a 1/2 inch grid version of his in the same configuration for those who prefer a target that's less "busy". The orange that is pictured is an addition from a highlighter as I find it to be a help with definition for my nowadays older eyes.
Now byf43 MIGHT just be conned into posting his targets again in the next few weeks if somebody should ask, with deer season not too away and all, and a lot of guys starting to be thinking about new rifles and fall sight in.
You may want to consider giving them a try.