C.O.L.

[uglystickangler]

If we look at reloading a 30-06 for example, the COL is 3.25".  My question is, the actual tip varies from a spire point to a HP,a blunt tip,......, so if I was to make the COL at 3.25, the amount of the bullet being pushed into the case neck is different.  Is this a correct statement or am I missing something.  So the distance of the bullet (once chambered) will differ from tip styles?? I realise that the bullet seater die does not push from the very tip.

[Mad Michael]

The length will still be the same, measured from end to end.  Depending on the weapon in question, magazine, etc., will help determine the exact OAL for that bullet. 

Here's a quick, but pretty good article on the subject that explains it much better than I can.
http://www.larrywillis.com/OAL.html

[gearheadpyro]

Your exact C.O.L. may vary some with the different style bullets. HOWEVER, C.O.L. is very flexible and easily tuned to your firearms by doing a proper load development. Even SAAMI recognizes that listed C.O.L.'s is more of a suggestion than a hard and fast rule.