Hi Skeet,
You're so right about the volume measures. Just tap your measure sometime and be prepared to be astonished at how much it can settle....
I'm with you on the measuring part too. I think that one of the great benefits that the Savage brings to those that shoot various types of powders or guns is measuring and weighing.
I also use a wad between powder and bullet. Some folks are using such things like cornmeal and cream of wheat as a buffer with great results, though I have to admit I haven't taken to denyin the chilluns their breakfast fer my personal satisfactions just yet...
Another thing about accuracy is having people like you drop these little pearls... like the powder measure idiosyncrasies and weighing powder, or at least tapping the measure and refilling.
Smokeless is so accurate because I believe its more consistent. What can we learn from that...
No... don't run out and load your gun with smokeless, but some powders are going to be more consistent than others.
As much as I prefer to use 3F for all my guns, if I'm shooting for burgers, I have to use 2F Triple Seven or Goex for my best groups. RS is not as good as either of the two in my 58's.
So, may Santa bring you sleighload powder, the keys to a private preserve where you can bring yer bud's to go hunting, and lastly, he brings you good health and prosperity...
Much Aloha and Merry Christmas