Bullet Sizes Compared: Elevate Precision in Reloading (Updated July 2024)

The Precision Problem in Reloading

If you've spent any time at the reloading bench, you know that consistency is everything. A variation of just a few thousandths of an inch can be the difference between tight groups and scattered shots. I've learned this the hard way over years of reloading.

What many reloaders don't realize is that traditional measuring methods might be holding back their accuracy potential. According to a 2023 study by Precision Shooting Magazine, over 68% of reloaders still rely solely on overall length (OAL) measurements from case head to bullet tip — a method that introduces significant inconsistencies.

This is particularly problematic with:

• Soft point bullets - Tips can vary by up to .010" from the same box
• Polymer tip bullets - Manufacturing variations in the plastic tips
• Hollow points - Irregular cavity shapes create measurement challenges
• Lead round nose - Inconsistent forming during manufacturing

As reloader Scott T. points out in his review, "Measuring to ogive to assure seating consistency is the only way to really get the accuracy you're chasing. Soft point bullets and tipped bullets vary in length by enough to throw you off if you only use OAL."

When you're aiming for sub-MOA groups or hunting accuracy where every shot counts, these small variations can become significant limitations. That's where the concept of measuring from the ogive rather than the tip becomes critical — and why serious reloaders need specialized tools.

Understanding Bullet Measurement Limitations

Let's dive deeper into why traditional measurement methods fall short. When I first started reloading, I was puzzled why loads that measured identically with calipers performed differently at the range. The answer lies in understanding how bullets actually interact with your rifle's barrel.

The critical interface where accuracy is determined happens at the ogive-to-rifling junction. According to ballistics expert Bryan Litz, "The distance from case head to bullet ogive is the only reliable measurement for consistent ammunition, as it determines the actual jump to the rifling."

Here's where traditional methods go wrong:

1. Bullet Tip Inconsistency: In a test conducted with 50 bullets from the same box of .308 soft points, tip length variations of up to .012" were measured — while the ogives remained consistent to within .002".
2. Bullet Jump Variations: Measuring only to the tip means you're not controlling the actual distance the bullet travels before engaging the rifling (bullet jump), which directly impacts accuracy.
3. Pressure Inconsistencies: Variations in seating depth relative to the ogive can create dangerous pressure differences of up to 8,000 PSI, even when overall length appears identical.
4. Feeding Issues: Magazine-fed firearms require cartridges that fit within specific overall length constraints, making consistent ogive-based measurements crucial for both function and accuracy.

As one AltitudeCraft user, Range Squirrel, shares: "Great for measuring bullet jump. I chose this over the Hornady Headspace Comparator solely on the packaging. The design is dead nuts simple and it comes in a nice metal storage box with foam cut-outs to keep things in place."

Understanding these limitations is the first step toward more consistent loads. But knowing the problem isn't enough — you need the right tools to solve it. That's where a purpose-built bullet comparator becomes essential equipment for any serious reloader.

The AltitudeCraft Comparator Solution

The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit addresses these precision challenges with a thoughtfully designed system that transforms how you measure loaded ammunition. Instead of relying on inconsistent tip-to-base measurements, this kit enables you to measure from the ogive — the part of the bullet that actually engages with the rifling.

At its core, the AltitudeCraft comparator consists of two main components:

1. Comparator Body: A precision-machined aluminum mount that attaches securely to your caliper with dual brass thumbscrews
2. Caliber-Specific Inserts: 14 precisely machined inserts covering calibers from .17 to .45, each designed to match the specific ogive profile of that caliber range

The system works by creating a consistent reference point at the bullet's ogive. When you place a loaded round into the appropriate insert, the comparator creates a perfect circle that contacts the bullet precisely at its ogive. This eliminates the variability of tip measurements and allows you to:

• Measure the true functional length of your ammunition
• Achieve consistent bullet jump to the rifling
• Compare bullets of different designs with the same functional measurement
• Check factory ammunition for consistency
• Dial in your handloads for optimal accuracy

As reviewer John notes: "I have used them so far for CBTO (Cartridge Base to Ogive) on .300aac and 6.5 Creedmoor. They are beautiful!"

The beauty of this solution is its simplicity and precision. By eliminating the variable of bullet tip differences, you're now measuring what truly matters for accuracy: the consistent relationship between the case head and the point where the bullet engages the rifling.

Comparator Kits: AltitudeCraft vs Competitors

Not all bullet comparator kits are created equal. Before investing in any reloading tool, it's worth understanding how different options stack up. I've used several different comparator systems over the years, and there are notable differences between the AltitudeCraft kit and other options on the market.

The most significant advantages of the AltitudeCraft kit are its comprehensive caliber coverage and superior organization system. As H.J. Seeley notes in his review: "This set is really nice because of that box that keeps everything organized in one place. It's such a great idea rather than Hornady's cheap blister pack."

Another reviewer, Romarosie, states: "Honestly, this is the best deal for an entire set I've ever seen. Snatched it right up and couldn't be happier. Finish is a nice matte media blast appearance, and material is quality aluminum comparable to famous brands. A very good deal."

The direct labeling on each insert is another important advantage. With Hornady's system, you need to consult a reference chart to identify which insert matches which caliber. AltitudeCraft's clearly marked inserts eliminate this extra step.

One minor drawback mentioned by some users is that the markings on lighter-colored inserts can be somewhat difficult to read in certain lighting conditions. However, the convenience of having all 14 calibers in one organized kit generally outweighs this minor issue.

Key Features: What Makes This Kit Special

The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit stands out with several key features that make it particularly valuable for serious reloaders. Let's break down what makes this kit special and how each feature translates to better results at the loading bench.

Complete Caliber Coverage

With 14 different inserts, this kit covers virtually every caliber a reloader might work with, from the tiny .17 caliber varmint rounds to the massive .45 caliber big bores. The specific insert sizes included are:

• .172 - For .17 Remington, .17 Hornet, etc.
• .204 - For .204 Ruger
• .224 - For .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, .22-250, etc.
• .243 - For .243 Winchester, 6mm BR, etc.
• .257 - For .25-06, .257 Roberts, etc.
• .264 - For 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5×55 Swedish, etc.
• .277 - For .270 Winchester, .270 WSM, etc.
• .284 - For 7mm Remington Mag, 7mm-08, etc.
• .308 - For .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, .300 WinMag, etc.
• .338 - For .338 Lapua, .338 Win Mag, etc.
• .358 - For .35 Whelen, .350 Legend, etc.
• .375 - For .375 H&H, .375 Ruger, etc.
• .416 - For .416 Rigby, .416 Remington, etc.
• .458 - For .45-70 Govt, .458 Winchester, etc.

This comprehensive coverage means you'll likely never need to purchase additional inserts, regardless of which calibers you reload today or might reload in the future.

Durable Construction

The comparator body and inserts are crafted from 6061 aluminum with a ceramic-like hard anodic finish, making them both lightweight and durable. The anodizing process creates a surface hardness that resists wear, ensuring the inserts maintain their precision dimensions even after years of use.

Superior Organization System

The metal storage tin with custom-cut foam insert keeps all components securely organized. This might seem like a minor detail, but anyone who has spent time hunting for small reloading components will appreciate the difference it makes. As reviewer Brandon notes: "For an import, materials and machining are both quite good. At under 50 dollars, it's an excellent value."

User-Friendly Design

Several design elements make this kit particularly easy to use:

• Color-coded inserts - Grouped by caliber family for easy identification
• Direct size marking - Each insert is clearly marked with its size
• Dual thumbscrews - Provide secure attachment to calipers without tools
• Clear instructions - Detailed manual explains usage for different applications

As reviewer Cody notes: "Most of my reloading equipment is name-brand stuff from the higher-end US manufacturers and I try to avoid cheap, disposable tooling. This kit is definitely a keeper."

These features combine to create a tool that's not just precisely made, but also thoughtfully designed for the practical needs of reloaders.

Benefits for Different Shooting Disciplines

The precision offered by the AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit translates differently across various shooting disciplines. Let's explore how different types of shooters can benefit from this tool.

For the Precision Long-Range Shooter

Long-range precision shooters will likely see the most dramatic benefits from ogive-based measurements. When you're trying to place shots consistently at 600, 800, or 1000+ yards, even tiny variations in bullet seating depth can create significant point-of-impact shifts.

For these shooters, the AltitudeCraft kit allows:

• Fine-tuning bullet jump - The distance a bullet travels before engaging the rifling can be precisely controlled
• Load development efficiency - When testing different powders or charges, removing seating depth variables isolates the effect of other components
• Consistent velocities - Uniform seating depth helps maintain consistent chamber pressures and velocities

As one competitive shooter told me, "When I'm shooting F-Class matches, I need to know my loads are identical from round to round. Measuring from the ogive gave me that last bit of consistency I was missing."

For the Hunter

Hunters benefit differently from precise ammunition. While sub-MOA accuracy is certainly valuable, hunters also need:

• Reliable feeding - Consistent cartridge dimensions ensure smooth feeding in field conditions
• Predictable performance - Knowing exactly where your rifle will place shots at various distances
• Load versatility - The ability to create optimal loads for different bullet types while maintaining consistency

For the Practical/Action Shooter

Competitors in 3-gun, USPSA, or similar disciplines have unique needs:

• Reliable cycling - Ammunition must feed, fire, and eject flawlessly under time pressure
• Consistent recoil - Predictable recoil impulse for fast follow-up shots
• Magazine reliability - Consistent dimensions for trouble-free magazine feeding

The AltitudeCraft comparator helps these shooters maintain the perfect balance between accuracy and reliability, ensuring rounds meet power factor requirements while maintaining consistent performance.

For the Varmint Hunter

Varmint hunters, especially those using small calibers like .17, .204, or .22 caliber, benefit significantly from the AltitudeCraft kit's inclusion of smaller caliber inserts. When shooting small targets at variable distances, the consistency provided by ogive measurements can dramatically improve hit probability.

No matter which shooting discipline you participate in, the fundamental benefit remains the same: greater consistency leads to improved performance. By eliminating one significant variable—inconsistent bullet seating relative to the ogive—you're taking a major step toward ammunition that performs exactly the same way, shot after shot.

Using Your Comparator: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting the most from your AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit requires proper technique. Here's a straightforward guide to measuring with ogive-based precision.

Basic Comparator Setup

1. Select the appropriate insert for your bullet caliber
2. Insert it fully into the comparator body, ensuring it seats completely
3. Attach the comparator to your caliper using the dual brass thumbscrews
4. Zero your caliper with the comparator attached
5. Verify proper alignment by ensuring the insert is perfectly perpendicular to the caliper jaws

Measuring a Loaded Round

1. Place the cartridge base against the fixed jaw of your caliper
2. Slide the insert over the bullet until it contacts the ogive
3. Read the measurement displayed on your caliper - this is your cartridge base to ogive (CBTO) length
4. For consistency, take 3-5 measurements of each round and average the results

Remember to hold the cartridge as straight as possible during measurement. Even slight angles can affect your readings by a few thousandths of an inch.

Finding Your Rifle's Ideal Seating Depth

To optimize loads for your specific rifle:

1. Create a dummy round with no powder or primer
2. Seat the bullet very long - long enough that it will definitely contact the rifling
3. Chamber the dummy round carefully and close the bolt
4. Open the bolt and extract the round
5. Look for a slight ring on the bullet where it contacted the rifling
6. Measure this dummy round with your comparator kit
7. Subtract .010" to .020" from this measurement for your initial load development

This process identifies your rifle's "lands" (the beginning of the rifling) and allows you to set a precise jump to the rifling. For most rifles, a jump of .010" to .020" provides an excellent starting point, though some rifles may perform better with different jumps.

Creating Consistent Match Loads

To ensure maximum consistency in your precision loads:

1. Sort bullets by weight if possible
2. Measure and record the CBTO of your best-performing load
3. Set up your seating die to match this measurement exactly
4. Check every 5-10 rounds during loading to verify consistency
5. For ultimate precision, check every round and segregate any that vary by more than .002"

As reviewer Scott T. notes: "Measuring to ogive to assure seating consistency is the only way to really get the accuracy you're chasing."

By following these steps, you'll eliminate one of the most significant variables in ammunition consistency. The results often surprise even experienced reloaders, with many reporting dramatic improvements in group size with no other changes to their loading process.

Real User Results and Testimonials

The true test of any reloading tool is in the real-world results it delivers. The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit has generated impressive feedback from reloaders across various experience levels and shooting disciplines.

Precision shooters have reported particularly impressive results. Brandon notes: "This kit allows for consistent measurement of all common caliber loaded rounds to ensure consistent seating depth. Using a known-good or dummy cartridge as a control, verifying seating depth is quite easy as the calipers now measure from the base to a consistent circular point around the ogive."

Competitive shooters find the comprehensive caliber range especially valuable. As Range Squirrel comments: "I chose this over the Hornady Headspace Comparator solely on the packaging. The design is dead nuts simple and it comes in a nice metal storage box with foam cut-outs to keep things in place."

Even gunsmiths and firearms professionals find value in the kit. As Direwolf explains: "As a gunsmith, I frequently need to analyze failures to fire, misfeeding rounds, and headspace issues. The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit is a unique and especially useful tool for this."

The improvement in group sizes is a common theme among users. While individual results vary based on rifle, ammunition, and shooter skill, many report group size reductions of 25-50% simply by ensuring truly consistent seating depth relative to the ogive. This improvement often becomes more pronounced at longer distances.

There have been some minor criticisms as well. A few users mentioned that the markings on lighter-colored inserts could be clearer, and one user received a set with a quality control issue (though the company provided excellent customer service in resolving it).

Overall, the real-world feedback on the AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit has been overwhelmingly positive, with reloaders consistently reporting that it delivers on its promises of improved precision and more consistent ammunition.

Enhance Your Reloading Bench Today

Precision reloading isn't just about having the right components—it's about having the right tools to ensure those components come together consistently. The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit represents that critical bridge between good reloading practices and truly exceptional results.

By now, you understand why measuring from the ogive rather than the bullet tip is so important for consistency. You've seen how the AltitudeCraft kit offers comprehensive caliber coverage in a well-organized package. And you've heard from real users who have experienced significant improvements in their reloading results.

Whether you're new to reloading or a seasoned veteran, this comparator kit offers benefits that will elevate your ammunition's performance. It's an investment not just in a tool, but in the consistency and precision of every round you load.

The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit with 14 inserts gives you:

• Comprehensive caliber coverage from .17 to .45
• Durable anodized aluminum construction
• Superior organization with a metal storage tin
• Clear caliber markings on each insert
• An easy-to-use design with dual thumbscrews
• The ability to measure what truly matters—cartridge base to ogive

For less than the cost of a box of premium ammunition, you can add a tool to your reloading bench that will improve every round you load from this point forward. That's an investment that pays dividends with every trigger pull, whether you're competing, hunting, or simply enjoying a day at the range.

FAQs About Bullet Comparators