Pressure Signs For The New Handloader

Q: I haven’t done a lot of reloading for my rifles, but have usually stuck with the starting loads in my manual. I thought I might try to gain a little more velocity for my .270 Winchester by working up one grain at a time from the starting load. Can you tell me what are basic signs of high pressure I should look out for?
Justin Williams

A: First, take the condition of the case into consideration. Any expansion of the sold head of the case to the point where extraction becomes tight indicates you should back off at least 2 grains of powder. Scuff marks on the case head made by the extractor or a circular mark made by a plunger ejector are sure signs that your load is too hot. Cratered or excessively flattened primers of course are a good indicator, but only if you use the exact same primer all the time and get to know how it looks. But some primers are awfully hard and some are really soft which makes them hard to read.

Nick Harvey

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The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.