The book says to load them to 3.290". I made a dummy round to test that length. I could not even get the bolt closed. That is when I measured the max length and seated 0.025" deeper. The IMR 7828SSC shot great with the same seating depth. This round is only going to be used to shoot Antelope, coyotes and prairie dogs. If I get to go for elk next year I will be using the Barnes TSX 160 grain.