Custom loaded rounds, if loaded by a competent loader, are superior to factory loads. But, that does not change the direct comparison of multiple calibers for the purpose of a baseline. Once you have a baseline you have a valid basis to go to the next step if looking to choose what to spend you money on. First you need the information required for a baseline.
As for sectional density, is it part of that essential base knowledge which provides a view into the performance of the cartridges that you are considering. Sectional density is important to hunters when considering killing what is hunted. But, I do not see it playing a very important role with targets. However, since most who shhot also hunt, it does not hurt toprovide that information for the purpose of contributing to the requestor having what he/she needs/wants as knowledge.
When giving information to another, giving more information is better than giving less information. Once the data is in hand, the requester can decide what to do with it. So, it does not make sense to assume what information is needed. It is always better to give whatever information you can so the requester can choose rather than having an outsider attempt to determine what the requester needs and does not need. So, let the requester decide what is wanted or needed. Anyway, what is wrong with giving as much information as you are capable of giving?
I agree fully with what can be achieved with match grade bullets. But, even with today's technology, making two (2) bullets that are exactly identical is impossible.
How a projectile flies through the air, the friction caused thereby, the heat resulting from that friction, any expansion due to that heat, the impact of the wind, the earth's movement, the impact of gravity as well as the launching platform are all factors affecting accuracy. But, there will not be a time when, from shot to shot, the conditions for two or more shots will be identical.
In addition , no matter how consistent all of that is, there is the inconsistency of the pull on the trigger as well as how that pull is exerted on the trigger.
In the end, it is all approximated because, with shooting a rifle, that which is inconsistent makes each shot different. No two bullets will fly exactly the same.
So, I give the information given just to give to the requester as much information as I can give. Let the requester then take all of the information from all of the sources and decide. If the requester is loading his own ammo, he is like a scientest and will test his various loads and bullets until he/she comes up with what is most desirable to him/her. Again, even to him having more information is better than less information. One can never know, whether or not, if certain information is desired.
I must say that I am amazed with the performance of newest two (2) Weatherbys, my .30-378 and my custom .257 STW. My .300 Weatherby is also a great performer (1x10 twist). But, that is me shooting my guns which, I am certain, is different than any other person shooting his/her guns.
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