Based upon my observation of several model 12FV's purchased and disassembled, Savage bead blasts and then Blue's the assembled barreled action. This tends to result in not so good cleaning on the inner working, i.e. chamber. I had one 223 that tore up any brass upon ejection. Really rough chamber caused by bluing salts left in the chamber. Savage reworked it and never had that problem again.
So how to know?
Glad you asked!
You're going to have to get one of these eventually, or something like it anyway, so why not start now?
https://www.amazon.com/Teslong-Bores...MA9SBDHZ0BNFPX
Best $50 you'll ever spend, and it'll answer so many questions you might have now and later on.
As for measuring your CBTO accurately, I will suggest you use the Hornaday OAL gage a bit differently. First, neck or full length size the LNL cartridge just like you would your brass. Mount it on the tool and insert it into the chamber. Notice if it has any tendency to drag or stick, and cure any deficiencies first.
Seat the bullet a bit long and install it on the tool. Slide it up into the chamber gently and feel for any tendency to drag or stick on the way to fully seated. If it feels like it's dragging before a full stop, it probably due to an undersized or contaminated throat.
Any tendency to stick upon withdrawal means the bullet is in the lands. Seat a bit deeper and repeat.
By doing this repeatedly, you'll gain a feel of what is going on. By the time you've got it all figured out, your endoscope will have arrived and you can confirm visually.
Let us know how it goes.
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