Copyright: LoadBase 1.0 Copyright ® 1994-1998 by LoadWare


Introduction
Introduction to  LoadBase 1.0™

LoadBase 1.0™ is a specific-purpose integrated software suite designed to help the centerfire metallic cartridge Reloader with the most common "information" tasks often involved in developing, analyzing, filing and searching of handloading data. Its scope is broad, as well its audience, being a valuable tool for competitive shooters, hunters, forensic experts, any anyone interested in this fascinating subject. This is a professional software, for serious users, who only want the best.

It is made up of 10 tools, including a comprehensive database, containing megabytes of useful information, a powerful Agenda, a professional  Exterior & Interior Ballistics tools, and many other utilities, in this way closing the circle regarding the tools needed in the development cycle of Reloading and gun testing.  All the hard-to-find parameters data needed to compare different loads is also included at the user's  fingertips complemented with Reports, Graphs and Filtering features.

Click on the following options for more on LoadBase 1.0™ and enjoy !

•	General Operation                             Menu Operation

•	Modules                                             Safety Rules

•	System Requirements                        Copyright & Disclaimer Notice


Agenda

This Tool allows the user to save, search and retrieve all loading data and/or data from a shooting session, without any hassle, in order to keep an "electronic notebook". To do so, the Agenda tool is presented as a folder composed of three tabs, one for loading data, the second one for velocity analysis and the last one for target information.

It's very important to realize that all three tabs together conform a SINGLE and UNIQUE information record. In other words a loading and/or shooting session is comprehended by the information contained in the three tabs AT THE SAME TIME. The record is splitted along three tabs just for convenience due to screen space restrictions.

The limit to the amount of data that can be saved is very large, almost of no practical meaning to the common needs.

•	LOAD DATA folder

At first glance, the user will notice that the arrangement of the folder comprises information "fields", that serves for  two purposes, first to store the pertaining data, second to search for any or all of these criteria at once, in other words to create a "filter". The second "element" is the calendar control. By default this calendar will highlight the present day according to the computer's date, it is possible to select day, month or year by clicking the appropiate feature. Third, are the lower buttons, that perform database options such as saving, deleting, modifying or retrieving the underlaying records. Fourth, the buttons with "arrows" operate on the "dataset" resulting from a retrieving operation, going to the first, the last, the previous or next record.

This folder has the special characteristic of being the main one, why, because from here and when saving or retrieving, the user selects the record(s) according to a filter, and displays one record(s) at a time, affecting the present one and the other two folders, Velocity Analysis and Target Information. It is possible to leave these folders in blank ( i.e. no velocity or target data ) but to effectively save or search for a record this folder must be filled in.

Also there are two indicators (checkboxes actually) Velocity and Target, which are not intended for user input. Their purpose is to remind the user that the current record has or not Velocity and/or Target information. This way, and in a glance, you will know the correct status, regarding the other two folders.

DATA TYPES & LENGTH

The information fields accepts alphanumeric input, that is any mix of letters and numbers, the only restriction being the field length, which is limited to 20 characters long.

SAVING & MODIFYING

To Save, just complete the information fields, ALL OF THEM, and when done, press the SAVE button.

To Modify, first retrieve the record you want to change, position the mouse cursor over the field(s), made the correction(s) and then press the MODIFY button.

DELETE & DELETE ALL

Select the record you want to delete, and press the DELETE button. For deleting ALL RECORDS IN THE DATABASE, press the DELETE ALL button. A Warning message will follow in both occasions, in order to confirm these operations. Remember, there is no way to turn back.

RETRIEVING ( SEARCHING )

The same fields used to enter information, also serve as mentioned before, to search for record(s) that satisfy certain criteria. For example, if you want to select all of your .300 Win Magnum loads, with Nosler Partition and Reloder 22, do the following. In the Cartridge box type "*300 Win*", in Bullet "Nosler Pa*" and in Powder "*22". Use the * as a wildcard, meaning this whatever is first, last or in the middle of your search filter expression. Of course, if wanted, the complete description of the field can be used, but sometimes it is hard to recall how exactly the powder type or any other descriptor, has been written down in the database, so is recommended to use the wildcards.

The use of wildcards is only limited by your imagination. Remember that the wildcards are "*" meaning no matter how many characters and "?" meaning exactly one.

When done press the RETRIEVE button. DO NOT TYPE THE QUOTES, they are here just for clarity. Remember you can filter by any field, but Loading Notes.

DATASET NAVIGATION BUTTONS

Suppose that in the foregoing example, the search operation yielded 6 loads that matches the criteria. In that case your DATASET is composed of 6 records, the program will show first the most recent in date. To "navigate" through the dataset the user has to press one of the "arrow" buttons, going to the first, the last, the previous or the next, as in a list. Remember, every time you press one of these buttons, the other two folders are changing too, reflecting the changes, while not visible.

CLEANING ENTRIES

This button simply clean all previous entries and return to a "blank" state.

•	VELOCITY ANALYSIS folder

The purpose of this folder is twofold, first one is to store velocity data gathered from a chronograph ( data to be stored in the database ) the second one is to perform several mathematical operations, in order to generate solid insight about load performance under the light of velocity ( these values are not stored in the database )

If without retrieving or saving any record in the LOAD DATA folder, the user jumps to this or the TARGET folder, at first glance, the Modify button will be disabled. This button is enabled only if a record(s) is retrieved or saved. Same behavior after the CLEAN button is pressed in the LOAD DATA folder. However, this does not prevents the user to do velocity analysis, so if needed use this capability as a "statistics calculator".

Also a graph is generated, to visualize the velocity string around the average, also graphed, as a dotted line.

CALCULATING

There are entry boxes for up to ten velocities, there is no need to follow an input order, so you can leave gaps, the program is smart enough to handle this situation for you. Once all velocity data is entered, press the CALCULATE ! button and a series of statistical values are displayed.

To be honest and to have figures with enough statistical meaning, no less than 5 velocities should be used. Otherwise the sample population will be too small to yield a logical and realistic insight.

1) Average
2) Standard Deviation
3) Extreme Spread
4) Min Vel 95%
5) Max Vel 95%
6) Min Vel
7) Max Vel
8) Non-Blank Vel

MODIFYING & SAVING

In this case to Save, first enter the velocity string then press Modify or if you want to correct an existing string, first retrieve the record you want to change, position the mouse cursor over the field(s), made the corrections and then press the MODIFY button.

CLEANING ENTRIES

This button simply cleans all previous entries and return to a "blank" state.

•	TARGET folder

The purpose of this folder is to allow the user to store in a "virtual" target, the impacts of the shooting session. Remember this folder is controlled by the first one, LOAD DATA, in other words, all target data is related to the load indicated in the first folder.

The limit to the number of "shots" than can be placed on the grid is of 50.

If without retrieving or saving any record in the LOAD DATA folder, the user jumps to this or the VELOCITY folder, at first glance, the Modify button will be disabled. This button is enabled only if a record(s) is retrieved or saved. Same behavior after the CLEAN button is pressed in the LOAD DATA folder.

The user is presented here with a grid, rather than an exact shooting target, I appreciated this as best, in order to accommodate precise shot placement.

There are two controls for placing shots, one for approximate caliber and the second for indicating the grid's squares size. To enable the grid size option, a caliber must be selected first.

In the 1" ( one inch ) mode the target covers 14"x13", in 0.5" ( half inch ) the area covered is 7"x6.5", finally in the 0.25" mode the area covered is 3.5"x3.25".

To allow accurate placement, every movement of the mouse cursor over the grid is translated into "target coordinates" shown under the label SHOT POSITION, also as shots are placed over the target a counter is updated, showing the total number of "impacts".

Every time you press up the mouse, and if the shots counts is more than 1, the Group size in inches is calculated. The criteria is the distance "center to center" of the two most apart impacts.

OPERATION

Input Order to follow. First, select an approximate bullet caliber, due to scale constraints is useless to represent intermediate calibers, like .22 and .24, so choose the nearest to your actual caliber. After this, select a grid size. Both operations now allow  to place a shot ( a green circle with a black dot in the center ) which is proportional in diameter ( and representative ) of a real impact, in relation to the grid size, to do so place the mouse cursor over the grid, ( every time the cursor is placed over the grid, changes its appearance to a cross ) and press the left button when the desired position is reached, a circle will be drawed.

CLEANING ENTRIES

This button simply cleans all previous "shots" and return to a "blank" state.


Analyzer

This Tool deals with Interior Ballistics, and is made up of a tab with three folders, including a Powley Calculator, a Greenhill's rifling twist calculator, a Bullet Performance calculator ( for hunting purposes ), and a Ballistic Coefficient calculator.

As any conscious reloader must know, Interior Ballistics is as serious as anything related with your firearm and the phenomena that takes place every time a shot is fired, so the values that could be obtained through this series of "calculators" must be taken and approached very carefully, and remember YOU ARE AT YOUR OWN RISK !, especially concerning the Powley folder.

In all folders, you will notice the presence of default values They represent the minimum allowable value for the specific parameter, and they are recreated every time a warning message appears ( following an error ) or when the Clean button is pressed.

Check the Copyright & Disclaimer Notice, and always follow safety rules when reloading.

•	POWLEY CALCULATOR folder

This folder fairly predicts RIFLE loads ( minimum charge ) yielding approximate initial powder type and charge, velocity and pressure data from basic parameters. Take into account that the powder selection is limited, therefore be very careful if you try to substitute this choice by another powder, based only in approximate burning rate proximity.

The procedure employed by the Powley calculator is basically an estimator, so it is possible that sometimes the suggested powder charge is near the maximum rather than the minimum level, so please be careful, and as a seasoned reloader work up the load with utmost care, step by step, grain by grain, always looking for dangerous pressure signs.

Remember, smart hunters know that the trick is done by precise bullet placement, not bullet performance.

If you are figuring out a load for a wildcat cartridge, remember that it is extremely sure that your actual cartridge could be compared to a standardized cartridge, so compare loads and proceed with caution.

1 - CASE CAPACITY IN GRAINS OF WATER. Enter the maximum fill in case capacity of water in grains ( between 1 and 150 )

2 - CARTRIDGE OAL ( Inches ). Enter the Over All Length of the intended cartridge in inches ( between 0.500 and 6.000 )

3 - LENGTH OF BULLET ( Inches ). Enter the length of the intended bullet in inches ( between 0.100 and 2.000 )

4 - BULLET WEIGHT ( Grains ). Enter the weight of the intended bullet in grains ( between 15 and 1000 )

5 - BULLET DIAMETER ( Inches ). Enter the diameter of the intended bullet in inches ( between 0.170 and 0.700 )

6 - MUZZLE TO BREECH DISTANCE ( Inches ). Enter the barrel length in inches ( between 2 and 30 )

•	GREENHILL's TWIST

This folder is used to determine the minimum spin ( rifling twist ) to adequately stabilize a bullet in flight. This is a simple algebraical method devised by Sir Alfred George Greenhill ( 1847 - 1927 ) professor for 30 years to the advanced class of artillery officers at Woolrich Military Academy.

If the user gives its own twist ratio, the program will compute the Greenhill's constant. In analyzing some opinions, the adopted value of 150 for the constant yields safe and accurate values up to 2200 FPS. For higher velocities more research is needed under the light of similar cartridges. When in doubt go with a higher twist ratio as the formula suggests.

Results are given in Inches per Turn. For example a twist ratio of 12 means that to perform one full revolution along its axis, the bullets needs 12 inches to travel along the bore.

1 - GREENHILL'S CONSTANT Enter the constant, by deault its value is 150, and it works fine ( between 50 and 250 )

2 - BULLET DIAMETER ( Inches ). Enter the diameter of the intended bullet in inches ( between 0.170 and 0.700 )

3 - LENGTH OF BULLET ( Inches ). Enter the length of the intended bullet in inches ( between 0.100 and 2.000 )

4 - KNOWN TWIST RATIO. Optional. Enter the twist ratio of your firearm in order to determine the Greenhill's constant ( between 5 and 40 )

•	BULLET PERFORMANCE

This folder could be quite controversial to some shooters, specially those who hunt, why, because its purpose is to determine a "numerical value" that fairly predicts the performance of a given cartridge ( TKO and WLI ) or bullet ( BPI ) on game upon impact.

The Bullet Performance Index ( BPI ) is a performance estimating algorithm developed by the author of LoadBase 1.0™ which understands performance in terms of bullets, not cartridges, which are "launching means". To my knowledge no other suggested method deals with differences in bullet design and construction, and anybody knows and is aware of the tremendous difference that a "target" bullet has with a "hunting" one. A pretty obvious case, but both Taylor's and Wootters's approaches don't take this into account, so how can these methods fairly discern  performance among cartridges without even considering this utmost important fact. I don't know, but to be honest and for comparison purposes both of them are included here. So be you the final judge.

In short, TKO and WLI don't consider bullets in regard to purpose, design or construction, only BPI handles these parameters.

1- MUZZLE VELOCITY ( FPS ). Enter the Muzzle Velocity in Feet Per Second  ( between 0 and 5500 )

2 - BULLET DIAMETER ( Inches ). Enter the diameter of the intended bullet in inches ( between 0.170 and 0.700 )

3 - LENGTH OF BULLET ( Inches ). Enter the length of the intended bullet in inches ( between 0.100 and 2.000 )

4 - BULLET WEIGHT ( Grains ). Enter the weight of the intended bullet in grains ( between 15 and 1000 )

5 - RETAINED WEIGHT ( Grains ). Enter the weight of the recovered bullet in grains ( between 1 and 900 )

6 - RECOVERED DIAMETER ( Inches ). Enter the diameter of the recoverd bullet in inches ( between 0.100 and 2.000 )

•	BALLISTIC COEFFICIENT folder

Sometimes, the user will be using or reloading a bullet for which BC data is unknown ( at least to him ), and this is the case with some european factory ammo. Under this situation is impossible to run a external ballistics calculation, since the knowledge of the bullet's BC is of paramount importance.

In such cases one can resort to various methods in order to figure out the unknown BC, one possible way is by simple comparison against similar shaped bullets, but this method is tricky and worst, it is error-prone.

The solution presented here is based in the G1 Drag model, and computes BCs very accurately, if you take the time to give the computer "good" data.

In general terms two velocities are needed as well as the downrange distance between both chronograph readings or these two velocities could be taken from a ballistics chart published by the ammo or bullet manufacturer.

Take into consideration that BCs varies in velocities sub-ranges, so a practical advise is to use distances no greater than 200 yards.

Also remember that the values obtained through this method corresponds to the G1 model and under actual atmospheric conditions, not corrected to standard atmospheric values.

1 - FIRST VELOCITY ( FPS ). Enter the First ( Muzzle ) Velocity in Feet Per Second  ( between 300 and 4400 )

2 - SECOND VELOCITY ( FPS ). Enter the Second Velocity in Feet Per Second  ( between 300 and 4400 )

3 - RANGE BETWEEN VELOCITIES ( YARDS ). Enter the distance in yards, between both velocity readings ( between 10 and 1000 yards )


Ballistics

This Tool enables the user to compute Exterior Ballistics data for up to 5 tracks simultaneously, and up to 1000 yards/meters.

Multiple independent tracks are one of the key features of LoadBase 1.0™. The term track, as used here, describes a set of parameters (input data) that determine the external ballistics behavior of a given load at a given location with a given sight setting, and so on.  Each of the five tracks includes 14 parameters that affect external ballistics.  Multiple independent tracks make it easy to ask "what if" or "what happens" questions, allowing the analysis of different scenarios or shooting situations.

For example, we do not know if we can obtain a better performance without increasing velocity by simply changing the bullet by one of a higher BC. We also do not know if it is worth to raise pressure levels without a clear picture of downrange results increase. We are guessing.

With most programs you would have to do one test at a time and either print the results, jot down or try to remember the numbers.  LoadBase 1.0™ five independent tracks lets you see all the results at the same time either as numbers or as graph plots.  You can do the same kind of experiments with any track parameter or any combination of parameters to answer these kind of questions.

There are lots of ballistics programs on the market that claim to feature multiple trajectories, but often this just means the program can plot more than one trajectory on a graph.  Other programs do a better job, but fall short because many parameters are common for all trajectories, which limits your ability to compare the effects of those parameters.  Some programs feature as many as eight trajectories, but you soon discover that you can only see and work with the parameters for one trajectory at a time; it's just not the same thing.

For any shooter/hunter the importance of the knowledge of Exterior Ballistics is essential. If we do not know these values we are simply guessing, at best. And of course not exploiting the full potential of our guns and ammunition. We have no clear idea of the limits.

Campfire talks usually touch the subject of which cartridge is better, but without having at hand REAL and OBJECTIVE values to sustain our affirmations, we are guessing one more time.

For reasons of complexity, very few had the opportunity to deal with the inner aspects of cartridge performance, and to "play" with them, to obtain valid conclusions, doing some sensitivity analysis by modifying variables and seeing what happened. Now with this tool you can unveil the secrets of ballistics in a matter of seconds.

The form is designed with  2 tabs, one for entering track data ( the upper one ) and the other for displaying and viewing the calculations, also there is an option button group to select the scale ( in yards ) to which you'd like to work ( take into account, that the scale setting doesn't affect the range increment, that is fixed in 5 yards/meters no matter the scale selected ). In the lower tab you have the possibility to see all calculations for each track at a time, or to see the same variable  ( i.e. Velocity )  for all tracks at once, just move between folders. There are two ways for representing parameters data, one is tabular ( lower tab ) and the other is a graphical representation of ballistics curves.

Also included is a PBR calculation, including MOA adjustments for those who want to correct their scopes and do not have access to an extended distance firing range.

Accuracy of the mathematical model is superior. This model is a special and proprietary ( developed by the author of LoadBase 1.0™ ) variation of the Siacci's method, using both iterative and recursion approaches to solve the problem of computing downrange velocity, the main variable of the solution from which others parameters are derived.

Of course, the program has the ability to deal with non standard atmospheric values.

Also, the user has the possibility to save and retrieve tracks data from a personal database, this operation is very simple and is accomplished by pressing the Tracks Mgt. button.

Warning !! if you retrieve two or more tracks with different units of distance, always the latter will affect the setting of the rest. In other words, if the first one was in Yards and the second one in Meters, the final setting for BOTH tracks calculations will be Meters. Please keep this in mind.

You will notice that most controls are enabled on demand. Input Order to follow.

 Menu : Reports/Ballistics ... and Ballistics Options/...

•	Track's Data

The upper tab is composed of 5 folders, each one has input boxes for the different values needed. Just point and click in the box, after that go to next one by clicking or use the Tab key. You don't need to fill all, just the appropiate in function of what you want to calculate. Input Error messages will appear if the user exceeds the normal values range.

•	Scale Group

Click the option button in order to select the working scale, for both the Grids and the Graph

•	Track's Parameters

The lower tab is composed of 7 folders, the first one is Results, where you have the choice to view all parameters for each track by clicking the Track's number option button, or you can move between folders to visualize a compared view of each variable for all tracks at once.

•	Units

Click the option button in order to select the working units, Yards or Meters. This affects the Zeroed Range and the Distance value in both, the Grids and the Graph. Take into account, that if after pressing the Calculate ! button you decide to change the distance units, the system will force a new calculation, in order to use the new criteria. This will be noticed by the forecolor of the Calculate ! button, which turns to red, as well as disabling the Track's Parameters tab.

•	Calculate !

Click this button to start calculations, and every time you change a Tracks´s value. This command button, when enabled, turns to red color, indicating that some value has been changed, so to indicate valid results this button must be pressed again. Otherwise it is disabled.

•	Graph

Click this command button to display a high-res graph at the actual working scale of the parameter selected in Track Results . Only enabled when the user chooses an appropiate parameter in the lower tab. Otherwise it is disabled.

•	Track Management

•	MUZZLE VELOCITY

Enter the Muzzle Velocity in Feet Per Seconds ( between 700 and 4400 )

•	BULLET WEIGHT

Enter the Bullet Weight in Grains ( between 0 and 1000 )

•	BALLISTIC COEFFICIENT (G1)

Enter the BC of the bullet corresponding to the G1 Drag function ( between 0.030 and 9.999 )

•	SIGHT HEIGHT

Enter the height of the sight above the bore axis in Inches ( between -10 and 10 ). This value is the distance ( in inches ) from the center of the bore to the center of the scope. For Rifles this value is usually 1.5", for open sights or handguns a typical value is around 0.9"

•	ZERO RANGE

Enter the Zero Range in Yards or Meters ( between 0 and 1000 )

•	ZERO HEIGHT

Enter the height of your zero at the desired zero range in Inches ( between -50 and 50 ) For example, meaning 2 inches high at 200 yards.

•	SLOPE

Enter the slope of your gun at the firing position, in other words the firing angle in Degrees ( between -60º and 60º )

•	PRESSURE

The default value is 29.53 (standard atmospheric value). Enter the Barometric Pressure at firing location in Inches of Mercury ( between 10 and 36 )

•	TEMPERATURE

The default value is 59º Fahrenheit (standard atmospheric value). Enter the Temperature at firing location in degrees Fahrenheit ( between 0º and 150º )

•	HUMIDITY

The default value is 78% (standard atmospheric value). Enter the Humidity at firing location in Percent ( between 0% and 100% )

•	ALTITUDE

Enter the Altitude at firing location in Feet ( between 0 and 15000 )

•	WIND DIRECTION

Enter the Wind Direction ( where it is blowing from ) in Degrees ( between 0º and 360º )

•	WIND VELOCITY

Enter the Wind Velocity in Miles Per Hour ( between 0 and 60 )

•	VITAL ZONE

Enter the diameter of the vital zone, for Point Blank Range calculations, in Inches ( between 0 and 25)

OPERATION

When a selection is made on the Scale option group, the Calculate ! command is now enabled, clicking it fills the grids containing the parameters data in the Results tab. The Graph button is enabled only when you select a Parameter folder ( i.e Energy ) other than Results or PBR, otherwise it is disabled.

The user can change the Scale setting anytime, triggering the appropriate changes in the Parameters grids and Graph, without the need to click the Calculate ! button again. This button must be clicked only the first time and any time the user modifies Track's data in one of the value input boxes in the upper tab, or when changing Units ( Yards or Meters ).

When this happens, the program notifies the user by turning the color of the Calculate ! button to red and by disabling all other features. Press the Calculate ! button every time it changes color !!!

If some parameter needs a value to be entered, other than the present default, the legend "----" appears in the grid standing for "Not Available". For example, if no Zero Range value is supplied, PATH is meaningless, so the legend is displayed.

VELOCITY folder
TOF folder
ENERGY folder
DROP folder
PATH folder
WIND folder

•	POINT BLANK RANGE folder

Point blank range is a concept which is extremely useful to hunters as well as to target shooters. The point blank range of any gun is the distance out to which a hunter can hold right on his game and be assured of a hit within a vital zone of the animal.

In other words, the hunter doesn't have to hold high or low to correct for the bullet trajectory, because within the Maximum PBR the bullet will not raise or fall more than half the diameter of the specified Vital Zone.

Sight Adjustment

An imaginary line down the center of the barrel's bore is called the line of departure (LOD).  Likewise, what you see in the center of the sights is called the line of sight (LOS).  Sight adjustment is simply the angle between these two lines.  This angle is measured in minutes-of-angle (MOA), and the fact that there are 21,600 MOA in a full circle (21,600 = 60 x 360) shows how small this angle is.

Usually, the sights are set so the bullet goes above the line of sight 10 to 30 yards from the muzzle and falls back below the line of sight 50 to 500 yards down range.  The zeroed range is where the bullet falls back to the line of sight.  Increasing the sight adjustment by one MOA raises the bullet's impact point by 1.05 inches at 100 yards.

POINT BLANK RANGE. Rounded ( for convenience ) to the nearest integer multiplier of 5.

MAXIMUM POINT BLANK RANGE. Rounded ( for convenience ) to the nearest integer multiplier of 5.

ZERO HEIGHT to PBR. Indicates the elevation of the impact point at your present Zero Range needed in order to sight-in for the PBR. In other words, it is a very useful value, to correct the impact point, if the user has access to a fixed distance range. Take into account that this value is not considering the actual Zero Height.

SIGHT ADJUSTMENT to PBR. Similar in concept to the ZRELEV, and indicates the direction and the amount of MOA change to your present scope setting. Check your scope´s manufacturers manual for specifications on MOA and clicks. Take into account that this value is not considering the actual Zero Height.


Menu Operation

Structure

The Menu Bar, an omnipresent element in every Windows application is composed in LoadBase 1.0™ with the following possible actions, where some of them are always enabled and others are enabled on demand. Every time a Tool Form is deactivated by losing the focus or by unloading it, the previously enabled menus turn to disabled state.

File

Printer Setup

Database Operations

     Repair

     Compact

     Backup

     Restore

     Remove

Exit

Data Filters

Bullets Manufacturers

Primers Manufacturers

Powders Manufacturers

Ballistics Options

Range Increments

Graphics

     Print Graph

     Copy Graph to Clipboard

Reports

Ballistics (Selected Track)

Ballistics (Tracks Datasheet)

Bullets Database

Bullets Worksheet

Loads Worksheet

Powders Database

Primers Database

Window

Cascade

Tile Horizontally

Tile Vertically

Help

Contents

About


Bullets

This tool enables the user to search for the specifications of most of the commercial bullets & moulds, available in the general market, by generating a query to the underlying database ( over 180 cartridges accounting for more than 1000 bullets & moulds, from every major manufacturer ).

It provides a single source, up-to-date, listing for all the bullet's characteristics from most of the major bullet manufacturers in the USA. No more fumbling through half a dozen reloading manuals to find ballistic coefficients, sectional density or other data.

Input Order to follow. Check the Copyright & Disclaimer Notice, and always follow safety rules when reloading.

 Menus : Data Filters/Bullets ... and Reports/Bullets ...

•	Select a Cartridge

Click the right arrow on the pull-down and a list of the available cartridge names displays down, the names are sorted by cartridge's diameter in ascending order.

•	Select Bullet Weight

Click the right arrow on the pull-down and a list of the available cartridge's bullet weights displays down, sorted in ascending order.

OPERATION

When a selection is made on the last option, a grid containing the bullets data is displayed. The bullets are sorted by Ballistic Coefficient in descending order.

This form works under a "cascade" effect, this way there is NO CHANCE that for the present parameters no bullet is available.

COMPANY : indicates the manufacturer of the bullet.

DIAMETER : bullet´s diameter in inches.

BC : bullet´s ballistic coefficient, indicated as by the manufacturer. Usually correspond to the G1 drag function.

SD : sectional density of the bullet. The ratio between weight and diameter.

CALIBER : nominal caliber designation.

STOCK # : manufacturer´s product number.

TYPE : generic designation, sometimes a commercial reference.

NAME : commercial name for the product, if available.


Cartridges

This Tool enables the user to search for Cartridge's dimensional and historical data, by generating a query to the underlying database ( over 180 cartridges ). No Input Order to follow.

•	Select a Cartridge

Click the right arrow on the pull-down and a list of the available cartridge's names displays down, the names are sorted by cartridge's diameter in ascending order.

OPERATION

When a Cartridge is selected, a series of labels containing the data is displayed. All dimensions are expressed in Inches.


Conversions

This Tool enables the user to perform the most common numeric conversions often used in Reloading. The form is composed of a main cabinet divided in folders, with upper labels indicating the kind of conversion.

The choices are for Weight, Volume, Temperature & Pressure, Distance and Velocity. Each folder contains a "calculator" display, "function" buttons and a results "display". You will notice that most controls are enabled on demand. No Input Order to follow.

OPERATION

Every time you type a number ( for speed, use the numeric keypad ), it's displayed in the "calculator" display, and after pressing one of the "function" buttons the results are shown in the results "display". You don't need to place the mouse cursor over the "calculator", this object gets the focus immediately after a result is viewed.


Copyright
Copyright & Disclaimer Notice

Copyright

 This software contains copyrighted data from several manufacturers' manuals and is used here by permission. This information cannot be reproduced without written permission from the original publisher. Also they retain the right to modify or change it at anytime without prior notice and assume no responsibility for the accuracy of this information.

You are cautioned that the information presented may contain errors that there were either present in the original source, or introduced here during production. You agree to assume all responsibility for your use of the information in this product. Always refer to the original manual for further details, this software is a powerful complement, not a replacement.

This computer program is protected by copyright laws and international treaties. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this program, or any portion of it, including the underlying database, may result in severe civil and criminal penalties, and will be prosecuted to the maximum extent possible under the law. All intellectual property rights in the software as well as this on-line Help file ( user documentation ) are the property of LoadWare, and are protected by copyright laws.

Disclaimer

LoadWare disclaims any warranties with respect to this software product and accompanying database ( including on-line help ) which are sold "as is", the safety or suitability thereof, or the results obtained, whether express or implied, including, without limitation, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and/or any other warranty.

Buyers and users assume all risk, responsibility, and liability whatsoever for any and all injuries (including death), losses, or damages to persons or property arising from the use of this product, whether or not occasioned by seller's negligence or based on strict product liability or principles of indemnity or contribution.

LoadWare neither assumes nor authorizes any person to assume for it any liability in connection with the use of this software.

Restrictions

You may not use, copy, modify, translate, disassemble, decompile, or transfer the programs, documentation, or any copy except as expressly defined in this agreement. You may not attempt to unlock or bypass any "copy-protection" or authentication algorithm utilized by the program. You may not remove or modify any copyright notice, nor the About dialog or the method by which it may be invoked.

Operating License

You have the non-exclusive right to use any enclosed program only by a single person, on a single computer at a time. You may not loan, rent, lease or license this software or any copy. You may physically transfer the program from one computer to another, provided that the program is used only by a single person, on a single computer at a time. In group projects where multiple persons will use the program, you must purchase an individual license for each member of the group.

Use over a "local area network" (within the same locale) is permitted provided that the program is used only by a single person, on a single computer at a time. Use over a "wide area network" (outside the same locale) is strictly prohibited under any and all circumstances. Violations will be prosecuted to the maximum extent possible under the law.
This license is effective until terminated. You may terminate it by destroying the program, the documentation and copies thereof. This license will also terminate if you fail to comply with any terms or conditions of this agreement.

You agree upon such termination to destroy all copies of the program and of the documentation, or return them to LoadWare for disposal. Other rights and restrictions: All other rights and restrictions not specifically granted in this license are reserved by LoadWare.

Back-Up and Transfer

You may make one copy of the program solely for "back-up" purposes, as prescribed by Canadian, United States, and international copyright laws. You must reproduce and include the copyright notice on the back-up copy.

You may transfer the product to another party only if the other party agrees to the terms and conditions of this agreement, and completes and returns registration information (name, address, etc.) to LoadWare within 30 days of the transfer.

If you transfer the program you must at the same time transfer the documentation and back-up copy, or transfer the documentation and destroy the back-up copy. You may not retain any portion of the program, in any format, under any circumstance.


General Operation

Basic Concepts

The operation procedures are straightforward and user-oriented, you don't need to learn complex steps to perform a simple task, just to point & click is enough. Moreover, all the possible combinations are error-free, meaning that the logic that the software is following, simply won't enable a dangerous user action.

LoadBase 1.0™ was designed with the Reloader in mind, so just in case an action is forbidden, a message will show up notifying the error situation and the system will go back to the previous state.

There is no system limit to the number of Tools that can stay opened at a time, the only limit is imposed by the user convenience. Remember that only one Tool can have the focus at a time.

Database BackUp

It's very important that the user perform some type of backup of the file LOADBASE.MDB if there is data entered via the AGENDA  or the BALLISTICS tools, because all the data from the LOADS, BULLETS, POWDERS & PRIMERS tools is stored in the mentioned file and is recoverable by installing the software again, but not the user's own data.

It is highly recommended to create another directory and from time to time copy this file from the LOADBASE directory to the backup directory, in order to maintain an updated copy of the database. Remember ALL DATA is stored in this file, not just the preloaded information, which is unmodifiable.

The suggested procedure is not a real backup, which means the use of an external media, but this is up to the user's capabilities and availability of specific hardware. Another option to reduce the size of the database file is to compress it, using third party software then copying it to a floppy, tape or rewritable CD-ROM.

Screen Elements

 There are 5 ( five ) elements with user interaction :

1 	Menu Bar

2 	Tool Buttons

3 	Tool Forms

4 	Form Objects

5 	LoadBase window

User's Actions

LoadBase 1.0™ allows the user the following actions :

•	Perform several operations on the underlying database, such as browsing, retrieving, querying, deleting and updating of the different tables, only through the several Tools, that conform the program features. There is no option to access the database from an outside source other than LoadBase 1.0™

•	Generate Reports and Graphics on different Tool Forms, which can be previewed or printed in the default printer. Only for some Tool Forms.

•	Another option available after a query to the database has been terminated, is to filter the resulting dataset, in order to achieve further refinement. The options to do this is limited to a set of predetermined criteria and on certain Tool Forms.


Index

This Tool is composed of a tab with 2 folders, the first one to identify and search for Cartridges by Nominal Caliber designation by generating a query to the underlying database ( over 180 cartridges grouped in 27 calibers ). The second one, allows to search for all the bullets with the same diameter and nominal caliber.

This tool is useful when, for example, the user wants to know how many cartridges could share the same bullet diameter, also showing the differences in caliber designation for cartridges designed for rifles or handguns.

In the Bullets folder, we can see how a same diameter could be shared or not by the same nominal caliber designation, a very important difference regarding bullets designed for rifle cartridges or handgun ones. This apparently confusing order is key to generate a query. On the other hand we can watch how different diameters correspond to the same nominal caliber, a common situation in cast bullets ( non-jacketed ) for rifles.

It is advisable to check the CARTRIDGES tool to obtain a complete description of bullet diameter and alternatives for each case in particular. No Input Order to follow.

•	CARTRIDGES by CALIBER

Click the option button corresponding to the caliber whose cartridges you want to select.

OPERATION

Once an option button is clicked, a grid containing the selected cartridges is displayed, sorted by Name in ascending order.

•	BULLETS by DIAMETER

Click the right arrow on the pull-down and a list of the available bullets diameter and caliber displays down, sorted in ascending order.

OPERATION

When a selection is made, a grid containing the bullets data is displayed. The bullets are sorted by Weight, Ballistic Coefficient, and Company in ascending  order.

This form works under a "cascade" effect, this way there is NO CHANCE that for the actual parameters no bullet is available.

COMPANY : indicates the manufacturer of the bullet.

BC : bullet´s ballistic coefficient, indicated as by the manufacturer. Usually correspond to the G1 drag function.

SD : sectional density of the bullet. The ratio between weight and diameter.

CALIBER : nominal caliber designation.

STOCK # : manufacturer´s product number.

TYPE : generic designation, sometimes a commercial reference.

NAME : commercial name for the product, if available.


Loads

This Tool enables the user to search for Reloading data, by generating a query to the underlying database ( over 170 cartridges accounting for more than 12,500 loads ), take into account that the "Min Charge" values are calculated in accordance to usual practices, pertaining initial loads.

These loads are not intended to replace published data, so in case of doubt take a look to a recognized source. Do not exceed maximum loads, unless pressure equipment is available to provide reliable data, and remember to work as close as possible to SAAMI guidelines.

Input Order to follow. Check the Copyright & Disclaimer Notice, and always follow safety rules when reloading.

 Menus : Data Filters/Powders ... and Reports/Loads ...

•	Select a Cartridge

Click the right arrow on the pull-down and a list of the available cartridge names displays down, the names are sorted by cartridge's diameter in ascending order.

•	Select a Firearm Type

Click the right arrow on the pull-down and a list of the cartridge's available firearm types displays down. Three possible options RIFLE, HANDGUN or SILHOUETTE.

•	Select Bullet Weight

Click the right arrow on the pull-down and a list of the available cartridge's bullet weights ( grains ) displays down, sorted in ascending order.

OPERATION

When a selection is made on the last option, a grid containing the loading data is displayed. The suggested loads are sorted by Maximum Velocity in descending order.

Remember that this form acts under a "cascade" effect, that is every time you select an option the next parameter is filtered accordingly. For example if the user searches loads for the .357 Magnum, the firearms type list presents three options, so it is possible that the range of bullet weights is different in each case, so pay attention to this, there is a chance that the inappropriate firearm type has been selected, so the desired bullet weight does not appears in the list.

This way there is NO CHANCE that for the present parameters no load is available.

SOURCE : indicates the original publisher of the suggested load.

BARREL : indicates barrel length and twist of the test gun used by the publisher to develop the suggested load.

MAX VEL : maximum velocity in Feet per Second.

MAX LOAD : maximum powder charge in grains.

MIN LOAD : minimum calculated powder charge in grains.

POWDER : brand and type of powder used in the suggested load.

PRIMER : type of primer used in the suggested load.

CASE : brand of case used in the suggested load, otherwise the legend "N/A" is displayed.

FIREARM : test gun used to develop the suggested load.


PowdersPrimers
Primers & Powders

This Tool enables the user to retrieve the Powders or Primers table from the underlying database. There are no parameters to select from. No Input Order to follow.

Check the Copyright & Disclaimer Notice, and always follow safety rules when reloading.

 Menus : Data Filters/Powders or Primers ... and Reports/Powders or Primers ...

OPERATION

When pressing the Tool Button, a folder composed of two tabs is displayed. One folder is labeled Primers, and by default is the first one, the other one is labeled Powders.

Just point an click to the desired folder label and the appropiate database is showed. Both Powders and Primers databases are sorted by Company and Name in ascending order.


Recoil

This Tool enables the user to compute the Free Recoil Velocity, Free Recoil Energy and Level of Recoil ( 13 levels ). The Form is composed of graphical elements called "slides", that act as input devices for the different values required in the calculation process. This form is interactive, that is, as you change any parameter, the corresponding recoil values are updated immediately without further assistance. No Input Order to follow.

Free recoil denotes the velocity or energy that the firing cartridge would impart to the firearm if there were no opposition to the gun's reaction.  Free recoil provides a standard means of comparing recoil characteristics.

This module is most valuable for comparisons between different guns and cartridges. On the other hand, the relationship between different loads and firearms may be more enlightening than the actual energy measurement by itself.

If the shooter is particularly sensitive to recoil, the judicious use of this tool will help to select a firearm and cartridge combination that meets specific shooting needs, yet keep recoil within tolerable limits.

And bare in mind that FELT RECOIL is a very different kind of animal, heavily influenced by factors like stock design, muzzle brakes, shooting position, recoil pads, etc.

ATTENTION SHOTGUNNERS !!! add wad weight to shot weight and use this value in the "bullet  weight" slide.

•	Gun Weight ( from 1 to 30 pounds )

Drag the mouse over the slide to change the default value. Fine increments can be done with the Cursor Keys.

•	Bullet Weight ( from 1 to 1000 grains )

Drag the mouse over the slide to change the default value. Fine increments can be done with the Cursor Keys.

•	Powder Weight ( from 1 to 300 grains )

Drag the mouse over the slide to change the default value. Fine increments can be done with the Cursor Keys.

•	Muzzle Velocity ( from 0 to 5500 FPS )

Drag the mouse over the slide to change the default value. Fine increments can be done with the Cursor Keys.

OPERATION

When a selection is made on any "slide", the value labels are updated showing the last change, interactively.


Safety Rules

•	Always excercise care and common sense at all times.

•	Don't become distracted when you are handloading.

•	Never load in haste. A careless mistake can be serious.

•	Use equipment as manufacturer recommends. Never take shortcuts.

•	Store powder in a cool, dry place at all times.

•	Never use a powder unless you are positive of its identity.

•	Never substitute smokeless powder for black powder.

•	Never use powder data with "similar" numerical designations, do not interchange data.

•	Never smoke while handling powder or reloading.

•	Keep powder away from heat or open flames.

•	Don't mix powders.

•	Don't keep more powder in an open container than you need.

•	Observe all maximum load warnings in reloading manuals and books.

•	Work up all new loads starting 10% below the recommended maximum charge weight.

•	Examine every case before loading to insure it is in good condition.

•	Watch for indications of high pressures in establishing a new load.

•	Never user smokeless powder in firearms designed for black powder.

•	Use of safety glasses while reloading is advisable.

•	Clean up any powder spills immediately. Use dust pan and brush to clean up powder. Dispose of it in accordance with recommended procedures.

•	Make sure powder container is empty before disposing of container.

•	Consult suppliers of components if you have any questions about their use.

•	Check powder charges regularly to insure using proper powder charge weight.

•	Develop a routine for reloading to guard against mistakes.


System Requirements

Hardware Specs (minimum)

•	PC with Intel 80486 or higher ( or compatible microprocessor )

•	Math co-processor optional, but  highly recommended to speed-up Ballistics calculations and graphics.

•	6 MB RAM ( 8 Mb recommended ).

•	Hard drive with at least 7 MB free space.

•	Mouse or similar pointing device.

•	VGA 640x480 ( Super VGA 800x600 highly recommended ) or compatible monitor/video card.

•	Printer is optional, but nice. Highly recommended is a laser or ink jet type.

Software Specs

•	Microsoft's Windows 3.1 or Windows 95 properly installed !


Topic1
Modules

The main objects used in LoadBase 1.0™, designed around Tool Buttons and Tool Forms, provides the way to gain access to the many features of this package.

 Loads

 Bullets

 Primers & Powders

 Cartridges

 Conversions

 Analyzer ( Interior Ballistics )

 Agenda

 Recoil

 Ballistics ( Exterior )

 Index


Tracks
Track Management

Pressing this button the user access the personal database in order to save, retrieve, and delete track's data.

It's composed of one tab with three folders.

•	Save Track

The first one is to Save data, a description must be entered, then a selection is made of which track's  folder data to save pressing the appropiate track folder number. The date is automatically written down by the system. When done press Exit to leave the tab.

•	Retrieve Track

To Retrieve, first select a track from the pull-down, then click the corresponding option button to indicate in which folder you want to place the data. Remember that all track data PLUS the Units setting is saved and retrieved.

•	Tracks Database

The last folder gives the user the possibility to delete individual tracks or all at once, please be careful, nevertheless the system will warn the user before attempting any unrecoverable action.


( rifling twist )

The Greenhill's formula is based on the rule that the twist required in calibers equals 150 divided by the length of the bullet in calibers.


1) Average

The average is the arithmetic mean (the sum of the values divided by the number of values).


2) Standard Deviation

Estimates standard deviation based on the velocities sample, obtained from the chronograph. The standard deviation is a measure of how widely values are dispersed from the average value  ( the mean ). A measure of uniformity or dispersion of values around the mean value or average.


3) Extreme Spread

The extreme spread, is the arithmetic difference between the maximum and minimum values in the velocity string.


4) Min Vel 95%

Returns the confidence interval for a population mean. The confidence interval is a range on either side of a sample mean. In our case, the value 95% means which is the velocity most likely to be the min in 95% of the cases.


5) Max Vel 95%

Returns the confidence interval for a population mean. The confidence interval is a range on either side of a sample mean. In our case, the value 95% means which is the velocity most likely to be the max 95% of the cases.


6) Min Vel

The minimum value of the velocity string.


7) Max Vel

The maximum value of the velocity string.


8) Non-Blank Vel

Number of values in the velocity string different from zero.


About

ALWAYS ENABLED. Displays the About Box, displaying information regarding the author, copyrigth as well as basic computer internal info.


Accuracy

One of the most frequently ask questions is "how accurate are the calculated down range values?"  As with any software, the accuracy of the input values determines the accuracy of the output values.  If the input values are as accurate as can be practically determined, then there won't be any statistically significant difference between the calculated down range values and actual measured values.  If you know anything about statistics, then you know that any given shot may not match the calculated value, but the average of a group of shots comes vary close, and the more shots in the group, the closer the true average is to the calculated value.  The difference between individual shots and the group's average is called Variability.


ALTITUDE

The density of the atmosphere decreases as altitude increases, and thus, there's less drag on the bullet.  Ballistic tables are calculated for sea level.


always enabled

These Menu options, are permanently enabled, no matter which Tool is activated.


ascending order

The lower values in a list are presented first than the higher ones, in arithmetic sequence. For example 7,9,16,34,50.


Backup

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, BACKUP creates a subdirectory, ..\DBBACKUP and copies the files LOADBASE.MDB and SYSTEM.MDA to it. This "copy" is not exactly a "backup", which to be effective in case of disk failure, calls for a copy onto a external media, but it is better than nothing at all. Most Tools use the database, if one of them is open, this operation could not be performed, and this option will be disabled.


BALLISTIC COEFFICIENT (G1)

Simply put, ballistic coefficient, or BC, is a numerical definition of how well a bullet retains its velocity, as compared to a "standard" bullet. The number is actually a ratio, compared to the bullet designated as the standard for that particular drag function. In practice, the standard bullet is arbitrarily assigned a ballistic coefficient of "1.000." If we compare the velocity lost by the standard bullet (drag deceleration) against that of a sporting bullet that retains its velocity only half as well, we find that the bullet in question has a BC of approximately 0.500. If the bullet retained its velocity only one quarter as well as the standard bullet, it will have a BC of 0.250.  Naturally, bullets having higher BC's will retain their velocity better and have flatter trajectories. This results in greater energy at the target, and better resistance to wind deflection. The BC's of most commercial bullets today are based on what is known as the SAAMI G1 drag model. T


Ballistics (Selected Track)

ENABLED ON DEMAND. Generates a preview, of the current Track selected in the tab RESULTS. Once the preview is displayed, the user has the choice to print, any number of copies, to the default printer. This report is designed to be printed on A4, Letter or Legal paper size only.


Ballistics (Tracks Datasheet)

ENABLED ON DEMAND. Generates a preview, of the current parameter folder, for example "Energy". Once the preview is displayed, the user has the choice to print, any number of copies, to the default printer. This report is designed to be printed on A4, Letter or Legal paper size only.


BC

Simply put, ballistic coefficient, or BC, is a numerical definition of how well a bullet retains its velocity, as compared to a "standard" bullet. The number is actually a ratio, compared to the bullet designated as the standard for that particular drag function. In practice, the standard bullet is arbitrarily assigned a ballistic coefficient of "1.000." If we compare the velocity lost by the standard bullet (drag deceleration) against that of a sporting bullet that retains its velocity only half as well, we find that the bullet in question has a BC of approximately 0.500. If the bullet retained its velocity only one quarter as well as the standard bullet, it will have a BC of 0.250.  Naturally, bullets having higher BC's will retain their velocity better and have flatter trajectories. This results in greater energy at the target, and better resistance to wind deflection. The BC's of most commercial bullets today are based on what is known as the SAAMI G1 drag model. This allows for an accurate


bitmaps

A computer's image representation.


BPI

Stands for BULLET PERFORMANCE INDEX and its formula is BPI = ( (  V^2 * pi * D * BL * WR * DR ) / ( 56000 * 32.174  ) ). Developed by Gustavo F. Ruiz.


BULLET WEIGHT

Bullet weight is important only when you are interested in knowing the bullet's energy and momentum.  The bullet's weight is given in grains (or grams), and can be found in reloading manuals, on ammunition packages, and in ammunition and bullet manufacturers' catalogs.


Bullets Database

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a query has been run on the BULLETS Tool, and generates a preview of the complete Bullets database table, grouped by Manufacturer, once it is displayed, the user has the choice to print, any number of copies, to the default printer. This report is designed to be printed on A4, Letter or Legal paper size only.


Bullets Manufacturers

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a query has been run on the BULLETS Tool, and refines the present dataset by allowing the user to select a manufacturer from the listing.


Bullets Worksheet

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a query has been run on the BULLETS Tool, and generates a preview of the Bullets grid, once it is displayed, the user has the choice to print, any number of copies, to the default printer. This report is designed to be printed on A4, Letter or Legal paper size only.


Cascade

ALWAYS ENABLED. Arranges the Tool Forms in cascade.


centerfire metallic cartridge

Cartridges designed around a metal case, ignited by a charge of smokeless powder, coupled with an external priming system, firing single projectiles (bullets).


Compact

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, COMPACT could be necessary if the disk is almost full and the database had been updated a lot, for example from the AGENDA tool. This operation simply reduces the database size by eliminating wasted internal space. Most Tools use the database, if one of them is open, this operation could not be performed, and this option will be disabled.


Contents

ALWAYS ENABLED. Displays the Help File.


control

All the objects that are on the Tool Forms, such as List, Combo Boxes, etc.


controls

All the objects that are on the Tool Forms, such as List, Combo Boxes, etc.


Copy Graph to Clipboard

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a Ballistics Graph is displayed. A high-resolution image is copied onto the clipboard. With this option the user can "import" the graph image to, for example, a word processor package or anywhere else.


Copyright & Disclaimer Notice

<Copyright>


Database Operations

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This menu option branches in  two groups, related to the LoadBase 1.0 database file LOADBASE.MDB, allowing the user to maintain it.


deactivated

A Tool Form is deactivated by losing its focus or by unloading it.


default printer

The active printer specified by Windows 3.1 or Windows 95. Usually selected via the Control Panel, or by LoadBase 1.0 through the File/Printer Setup menu.


descending order

The higher values in a list are presented first than the lower ones, in arithmetic sequence. For example 50,34,16,9,7.


disabled

When a button, menu option or any other object is disabled, the user can't interact with it. Keep in mind that this state is temporal, when appropriate it state will turn to enabled. Its caption forecolor turns to light gray


DROP folder

Drop is a good indicator of how flat shooting a load is because it's independent of sight adjustments.  The bullet starts to drop immediately after it leaves the gun's barrel.  At any given range, drop is measured from the line of departure (LOD) to the bullet.  The line of departure is the same as the center of the gun barrel's bore.  Even though the term drop already implies that the bullet is always below the line of departure, by convention, drop values are shown as negative numbers.


enabled

When a button, menu option or any other object is enabled, the user can interact with it. Its caption forecolor turns to black.


ENERGY folder

The effectiveness of a bullet is often referred to as its stopping power, and energy is a good indication of stopping power.  The bullet's construction also plays an important part in stopping power, but the best bullet construction depends on the intended target. Doubling the weight (mass) of a bullet doubles its energy, but doubling the velocity of a bullet quadruples its energy.


Exit

ALWAYS ENABLED. Clicking this option, LoadBase 1.0 terminates and quits.


filter

A "deeper" level of query.


focus

A Tool Form has the focus, or by the way any other object when the user is working right on it. Otherwise the focus is lost.


Form Objects

All the objects that are on the Tool Forms, such as List, Combo Boxes, etc. Also called CONTROLS.


Form

After pressing a Tool Button a "form" appears on the screen, wherein the user is guided to perform some steps, mainly point & click, to obtain the expected data.


General Operation

<General Operation>


HUMIDITY

Humidity affects the atmosphere's density and speed of sound, and thus, the drag on the bullet.  The effect of humidity is slight compared to temperature, but it can become a factor at long ranges.  If you don't know the actual value, use the standard value of 78 %


Input Order

Note that the parameter entering order is predefined by LoadBase 1.0, but in a sense meaning that you must follow a FORWARD sequence. For example, if you have three options in a Tool Form ordered 1, 2, 3 you can finish with 3 and go back to 1 or 2, what you can't do is going from 1 to 3.


LoadBase window

The main window, that acts as a "parent" for the other elements.


Loads Worksheet

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a query has been run on the LOADS Tool, and generates a preview of the Loads grid, once it is displayed, the user has the choice to print, any number of copies, to the default printer. This report is designed to be printed on A4, Letter or Legal paper size only.


Menu Bar

A Windows container for a series of action options to perform, regarding the present Tool Form. These items are generally not enabled all the time, in order to avoid improper actions.


Menu Operation

<Menu Operation>


MOA

MOA stands for Minute of Angle. There are 360º in a circle, each degree is divided in 60' and each minute in 60" ( seconds ). Therefore there are 21600' in a circle, so 1 MOA is 1/21600 of a circle. Usually 1 MOA is rounded off to a linear equivalency of 1" ( inches ) at 100 yards, 2" at 200 yards and so on. These figures carry an error of 4.6%, so to be exact 1 MOA represents 1.042" at 100 yards. Remember that Pi / 3 = 1.042


Modules

<Tools>


MUZZLE VELOCITY

Muzzle velocity is the speed of the bullet at the gun muzzle.  These values can be found in reloading manuals and ammunition manufacturers' catalogs.  For even greater accuracy, a chronograph can be used to measure the velocity of loads fired in your own guns.


PATH folder

Path takes into account both the bullet's drop values and the gun's sight adjustment.  Path is the distance the bullet is above or below the line of sight (LOS).  When the bullet is below the line of sight, its value is negative.  When the bullet is above the line of sight, its value is positive. The bullet starts out the same distance below the line of sight as the sight height.  In most cases, the bullet then rises through the line of sight, reaches some maximum height above the line of sight, and then falls back through the line of sight at the zeroed range.


Powders Database

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after the  POWDERS Tool was activated, and generates a preview of the complete Powders database table, grouped by Manufacturer, once it is displayed, the user has the choice to print, any number of copies, to the default printer. This report is designed to be printed on A4, Letter or Legal paper size only.


Powders Manufacturers

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a query has been run on the LOADS or POWDERS Tool, and refines the present dataset by allowing the user to select a manufacturer from the listing.


Powley

Homer Powley has worked in the Internal Ballistics field and has developed a lot of experience with small arms ballistics. He is famous for creating the "Powley Computer for Handloaders" which is a set of slide rule like devices for computing optimum loads for a generalized gun given the charge to bullet mass ratio, case capacity and expansion ratio. The computer calculates the IMR series powder type and charge to use, and gives muzzle velocity.


PRESSURE

Barometric pressure affects the atmosphere's density, and thus, the drag on the bullet.  The program uses  pressure values corrected to sea level.  Thus, reported values only measure the effect weather systems have on the atmosphere's pressure.  The program assumes the value you enter is the reported barometric pressure.  Reported pressure is independent of altitude, so you can change the Altitude parameter's value without having to change pressure.  Some users have access to absolute pressure readings from accurate on-site instruments.


Primers Database

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after the  PRIMERS Tool was activated, and generates a preview of the complete Primers database table, grouped by Manufacturer, once it is displayed, the user has the choice to print, any number of copies, to the default printer. This report is designed to be printed on A4, Letter or Legal paper size only.


Primers Manufacturers

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a query has been run on the PRIMERS Tool, and refines the present dataset by allowing the user to select a manufacturer from the listing.


Print Graph

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, is enabled after a Ballistics Graph is displayed. A high-resolution image is then printed in the default printer. Check the File/Printer Setup menu option if you want to change, for example the page orientation.


Printer Setup

ALWAYS ENABLED. Clicking this option, a dialog box appears, allowing the user to set several printer capabilities.


query

A method used to extract information from a relational database, meeting some criteria. For example, when a user selects a Cartridge, with a specific Bullet Weight, he is "querying" the database, requiring all the data that matches this requirement.


Range Increments

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option is enabled after the Ballistics Tool is displayed. Settings are for 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 (yards/meters) range increments, to the maximum distance specified by the Scale option button. This setting could be changed anytime, that is before or after a calculation is performed. The default value is 5. This increment applies to both the various results grids as well as to the Report. Changes in both the Scale or the Range Increment are immediately reflected.


Remove

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, REMOVE deletes the backup files and the subdirectory ..\DBBACKUP. Most Tools use the database, if one of them is open, this operation could not be performed, and this option will be disabled.


Repair

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, REPAIR is used whenever the database is corrupted, something than can happen from time to time if the computer, due to hardware or operating system failures turns unstable. Most Tools use the database, if one of them is open, this operation could not be performed, and this option will be disabled.


Restore

ENABLED ON DEMAND. This option, RESTORE copies the files backup files from the subdirectory ..\DBBACKUP to the working directory. Most Tools use the database, if one of them is open, this operation could not be performed, and this option will be disabled.


SAAMI

The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturer's Institute, Inc. 555 Danbury Rd., Wilton, CT 06897, USA


safety rules

<Safety Rules>


SIGHT HEIGHT

Sight height is the distance, that the sights sit above the center line of the barrel's bore.  With telescopic sights, this distance is usually 1.5 inches.  With iron sights, this distance is usually 0.9 inch.  Sights mounted below the barrel have a negative height.  For example, some laser sights are mounted 2 inches below the barrel, and thus, have a sight height of -2.0 inches.


SLOPE

Any sloping shot, whether up hill or down hill, shoots high, so you have to hold low to compensate.  The amount you have to hold low depends on the steepness of the slope and the load you are using.  A level shot is 0 degrees.


standard atmospheric values

When you want to compare loads with published figures you should use standard atmospheric conditions. Standard conditions refers to sea level altitude, barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity. Standard Conditions : Altitude : 0 feet (sea level) ** Temperature : 59°F (15°C) **  Pressure : 29.53 Inches Hg (750 mm Hg) Hg is the symbol for mercury. **  Humidity : 78 percent. Standard conditions also assume no head or tail wind and a level range.


System Requirements

<System Requirements>


table

A data structure used to store information in a relational database system.


tables

A data structure used to store information in a relational database system.


TEMPERATURE

Temperature affects the atmosphere's density and speed of sound, and thus, the drag on the bullet.  Ballistic tables are calculated for a temperature of 59°F.


Tile Horizontally

ALWAYS ENABLED. Arranges the Tool Forms in an Horizontal Tile.


Tile Vertically

ALWAYS ENABLED. Arranges the Tool Forms in an Vertical Tile.


TKO

Stands for TAYLOR's KNOCK OUT and its formula is TKO = ( ( D* W * V ) / 7000 ). Developed by John "Pondoro" Taylor.


TOF folder

The time it takes the bullet to reach a given range is called time of flight (TOF).  Time of flight is used in other calculations, but it has a more practical use as well.  Whenever you are shooting at a moving target, you must lead it.  The amount of lead depends on how fast the target is moving across the range and on the bullet's TOF.


Tool Buttons

Also called Command Buttons ( they are the screen objects with icons ) , herein are referred to as the main element by which the user access LoadBase's Tool Forms. A button operation is initiated by either clicking it with the mouse pointer or in some cases by using a keystroke combination of ALT+Underlined letter.


Tool Forms

After pressing a Tool Button a "form" appears on the screen, wherein the user is guided to perform some steps, mainly point & click, to obtain the expected data.


Track Management

<Tracks>


tracks

The characteristics of a load, is herein referred as a TRACK. Each Track is made up of Data Values.


unloading

A Tool Form is unloaded when the user clicks the Quit button in the form's control box, located in the uppermost right position.


VELOCITY folder

Velocity is expressed in feet/second, and is a parameter of paramount importance, without it you have nothing. If you've done any reading of ballistic tables, you're probably already familiar with bullet velocity data.  All other things being equal, the higher the muzzle velocity of a load, the more powerful and flatter shooting it is.


VITAL ZONE

This parameter is needed only if you want to find the point blank range of a load.  The vital zone size is the diameter (distance from edge to edge) of the target's vital zone.  This size varies with the size and type of target you are interested in.  For example, the vital zone size for small game may be only 3 inches, while 10 inches could be used for large game.


WIND DIRECTION

Wind direction is entered as an absolute compass direction.  A cross wind would be from either 90º or 270º, and a tail wind would be from180º, while a head wind is from 0º.


WIND folder

Wind drift is the distance a bullet is blown across the range by wind.


WIND VELOCITY

The effects of wind on the bullet's trajectory depends both on the speed and direction of the wind.  Cross winds shift the bullet's impact point left or right, while head and tail winds raise or lower the impact point.


WLI

Stands for WOOTTERS LETHALITY INDEX and its formula is WLI = (  ( W^2 * V^2 ) / ( 98000000 * 32.174 * D ) ). Developed by John Wootters.


ZERO HEIGHT

In some cases you may want to position the bullet's path above or below the line of sight at a given range.  Enter a positive or negative value to position the bullet's path above or below the line of sight, respectively.


ZERO RANGE

The zeroed range is defined as the range where the bullet drops back through the line of sight (LOS), or with some loads and settings, where the bullet just touches the line of sight at one place.