My first Luger!

[Ron Smith]

Jerry,

A smoked case indicates that the bullet has fully seated in the barrel lands creating a perfect seal, which in-turn causes a minute amount of the gas to blow back along the case (path of least resistance).

A complete seal around the bullet, means that there isn't any "blow-Bye" of gases around the bullet. This puts even pressure on the base of the bullet, causing it to fly truer without any pitch or yaw as it leaves the barrel making it more accurate. It's nothing to do with head space, which is almost always indicated by the primer backing out, or in the extreme instance a separted case.

I've been an Elmer Keith fan since he used to write for American Rifleman in the 50's and 60's. I've tested many of his ideas, tips and thoughts on shooting, ammunition and reloading. I've found that he knew what he was talking about in many regards.

Young shooters learn from old shooters...

Ron