my loads do not approach reloading book velocities?

[Garycrow]

does crimping increase velocity? seems like it could, but i have yet to crimp anything

No, it doesn't.

 

[Joe Kondelis]

Bear Arctic Grizzly. Brooks Range
https://www.amazon.com/photos/shared/0Efun9FySvuO4mwdC6DOXg.07KxdduGogyK4Yc39gqGUp

Bullet. Guide shot after my first shot. He was shooting a 340. Both bullets recovered in same location. 1" apart

https://www.amazon.com/photos/shared/QLjeI3XXSQ2iJPV1AbZiXg.6rAXGSl8wJK_wWlibaGGip

 

[Nimrodmar10]

That's why we reload, to tailor the load to our own rifle. You should own as many reloading manuals as possible. Each one is different, but when all used together, you can find your best load