How to organize your reloading data?

J

jschroed

New member
I'd like to hear how you guys are organizing your reloading data you have collected. I have all the targets I have shot with all the information written on them (rifle, bullet, powder load, case, primer, velocity, conditions, ect.) and of course the group that was shot. Now I just need some ideas on how to catalog it.
 
I use a three ring binder and excel to organize my loads and keep track of what works and what doesn't. I use the 8.5x11 targets because it's easier to store. I am trying to find an easy way of putting the reloading manual information in excel so I don't have five books all over the kitchen table. I also want a way to scan my targets in excel.
 
I have a small binder that I document all of my loads in. I really should have one for each rifle but so far I don't.

When I shoot the targets I document on the target what the loads are (as you are doing). I then document in the notebook what results I got (at home). If I'm working a "ladder" I make sure to asterisk the load and then put everything I can on the same page.

Most of the targets get tossed after a while but I save them in a stack for a few months because sometimes I want to go back and rethink my load scheme.

I've scanned some of the better ones but mostly to brag. layback's idea of scanning them all is probably a great idea.
 
I also have a small binder that I use.. I save my test targets [documented], and also have a computer program that stores the load data. I always mark the load on the box as well. I am also thinking of taking digital photos of my test targets..

In my binder I have loads for firearms I no longer own..
 
I too utilize Excel for load/target/result/condition type data. All of my targets are photographed and pics are stored in the appropriate "firearm" folder. I also scan all field notes to a .pdf file and save in the "firearm" file as well.

....then of course it is backed up on the external hard drive
lol.gif
 
Store actual targets trimmed to 8 1/2 x ll in 1" three ring binders w/load data and all pertinent info. Have a binder for each of the rifles I shoot the most and one 3" binder w/dividers for all others.

Regards,
hm
 
I keep hand notes on load development in a hard bound field book - the type surveyors will use to collect data. My targets are saved, and every couple months I'll set down and scan the targets and "file" them on my hard drive. My files are set up firearm/bullet type-weight/powder. I always document my load data on the targets before I leave the range (ie COAL, primer, case prep, bullet, charge, atmospheric conditions).
 
I put all load data on spread sheets that are kept in a 3-ring notebook, and a master reloading data sheet on the wall above my reloading bench. I buy poster board in 10 packs at Office max and use 3" shoot-N-see targets. I put 5 targets across long ways on top and bottom so there are 10 targets per sheet, I write powder at each end and charge above each target. This way I can keep all targets for future reference so I can see how different combinations of powder, bullets, and charges. I also chrono all loads which are kept on spread sheets in the 3-ring binder. Yes this is time consuming but I don't have to try to guess which combos I have or have not tried.
I enjoy seeing what you other guys are using to keep track of your loads.
 
Spiral notebook with all pertinant data plus I save targets with all data, dates, ranges and weather conditions written on them. I recentally started photographing these targets just to better organize them and avoid the clutter.
 
Originally Posted By: DucksoupSpiral notebook with all pertinant data plus I save targets with all data, dates, ranges and weather conditions written on them. I recentally started photographing these targets just to better organize them and avoid the clutter.

+1 Only i use 1 for each gun
 
I use the Lee Shooters Program for Windows. All load information such as powder, bullet, primer ect goes into it. All my targets are saved and information like temp, humidity, wind ect are written on the targets. All groups are measured and info added to the load data.

When I find the best load, it is noted in the load data as such. Load data is then printed out and stored in a three ring binder. I can take the binder anywhere I want, mostly to my reloading bench for reference. As I reload more ammo for that firearm, I print it out and add it to my binder.

I usually hang on to the targets for a little while but end up throwing them in the trash. All info from the targets are noted in the load data.

It may not be the best system but it's mine. As time goes on I try to improve on it.
 
I'm old fashioned and keep all my load data in a spiral notebook, including load comments, etc. I keep everything chronologically.

I know I can and should be doing something that is more sophisticated; however, I still have my spiral notebooks from the '60's.
smile.gif
 
I use a 3 ring binder. Each page/pages are for one certain rifle. All loads, good or bad, are logged into the correct page for the rifle I loaded for. Number of rounds loaded and group size are also noted. The good loads get a big star beside them. The bag loads usually have NFG beside them. This also helps keep an accurate round count on each rifle. Any factory ammo shot is also recorded in the book also. I have a box beside my bench to store shot targets till it gets full, then my wife recycles them.
 


Write your reply...
Back
Top