Thanks guys for the reply, as always great info on here.
I have put much thought into something to "see" where the case and bullet is making contact. Hadn't came up with "smoking" over a candle. That is a great idea and might help explain what's going on. I am using Hornady virgin brass.
My build,
savage 12 single feed
7mm08 custom barrel (trying a bison gun works )
Berger 168 VLD'S
set hesdspace at app. .004
i am using a dummy round to get OAL
have some factory Federal Fusion 140's
all add some "weight " to the closing force.
Handloads seem to have more weight than the factory.
Hornady brass has been tried out of box and FL sized. Same result.
I will use the smoke and see where I am, will get back with you guys tomorrow.