Quote Originally Posted by FUBAR View Post
Do a Google search and you will find variations on the method(s)

Here is a simple method:

Chronograph is highly recommended

Set up for a known distance say 300 yards--this distance may be your zero range or the range you plan on engaging targets

Start with a load at the low end of the powder scale for the bullet selected

Shoot said target, # of shots is a decision point, some shoot 3 ea, now record all data- walk or ride???

Increase powder by no more than .5 gr, repeat the above

Look for pressure signs each time

Contrary to popular belief high powder, high velocity does not always equal the "best" load, but it may

Your searching for the best load, at some point during the test your will find the best load for that powder/bullet combo

At some point you reach pressure issues or accuracy will fall off or both

May find that the load is not as good as thought

Variations of this are used extensively by Benchrest shooters to find a load for the range(s) they are shooting


Make sense?
Just to clarify, I believe that with the ladder test you are looking for a sequence of charge weights that group consistently, similar to the OCW method. This would give you an optimal charge that won't be affected by slight over-charging/under-charging or atmospheric changes.

An interesting article: http://optimalchargeweight.embarqspa...der/4529811360