Re: Excess Burned Powder On Case Neck
Some points:
Adjusting loads upward should be done only after verifying that pressure signs indicate some room for charge growth. Because neck sooting can have several causes, it should not be the sole indicator that more pressure is needed. BTW, neither the sooting nor the underlying causes indicate any problems, as such.
Case length growth should never be allowed to procede beyond SAAMI maximum case length limits. Period.
The advice in the above posts remains valid, but please make sure the basic handloading precautions don't get bypassed.
The cause you ask about is a failure of the neck to seal against the chamber's interior. It can be the result of a pressure deficit, work hardened necks, or a combination of both. Observing pressure signs, mostly at the base of the cartridge, can help confirm the former. Increased tool resistance when operating in the vicinity of the neck, increased projectile seating resistance, and possible bullet saving when seating, are all potential indicators of work hardened necks. Unless you anneal your cases, said indicators are telling you the cases' lifespan is nearing its end.
Greg