Author: loadnode
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Neck Tension and Bushing Dies: The Key to Consistent SD
Neck tension and bushing dies explained: what neck tension is, why it drives SD, how expander balls, bushing dies and mandrels control it, and the role of annealing.
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Ballistic Coefficient and Twist Rate: Choosing a Bullet for Distance
Ballistic coefficient and twist rate explained: what BC is, G1 vs G7, how twist stabilizes a bullet, the stability factor, and how to match a bullet to your barrel.
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Barrel Break-In: Necessary or Myth?
Barrel break-in: what the shoot-and-clean procedure is, the honest case for and against it, what the evidence actually shows, and a sensible approach for your rifle.
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Density Altitude for Shooters: What It Is and Why It Matters
Density altitude for shooters: what DA is, how temperature, pressure and humidity change air density, why it shifts your dope at distance, and how to track it.
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Annealing Brass: Why and How
Annealing cartridge brass, explained: why brass work-hardens, how annealing keeps neck tension consistent for lower SD, the temperature and safety rules, and the methods.
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Brass Prep for Accuracy: A Step-by-Step Checklist
Brass prep for accuracy, step by step: cleaning, sizing and shoulder bump, trimming, chamfering, primer pockets, neck tension, and which steps actually matter most.
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Best Reloading Log Apps in 2026
The best reloading log apps in 2026, compared honestly: RCBS, Vihtavuori, Reloading Assistant, Reloading Studio, Ballistic-X and LoadNode, and what each is best for.
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How to Get Velocity Data Off Your Garmin Xero
How to get velocity data off your Garmin Xero C1: how the chronograph and ShotView app work, manual vs automatic sync, and getting your shots into a reloading log.
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How to Track Throat Erosion (and Barrel Life)
How to track throat erosion and get the most barrel life: what erodes a throat, how it kills accuracy, typical barrel life by cartridge, and how to monitor it.
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Is Reloading Worth It? An Honest Cost Breakdown
Is reloading worth it? An honest look at per-round cost, equipment break-even, savings vs factory ammo by cartridge, and the non-money reasons handloaders do it.