It's beginning to make sense - you used an imperial feeler gauge with conversion metric measurements, taken to the third decimal place. It is best to get a metric feeler gauge, as the shims are in millimeters.
The problem with a feeler gauge is that by definition your "feel" of the drag through the gap will be different from another mechanics "feel". That alone could account for the change or difference.
As to hot or cold adjustments, I remove the cam to make the changes, and then buy or swap shims. Consequently I want the engine to remain at a constant temperature throughout, and I do the adjustments cold, using the clearances spec'd for cold. I also mike the existing shims to get an accurate measurement, which may be different from the etched thickness due to wear.
Given that the shims come in wide increments only, close is good enough on these engines. My rule is .012in. is a bit too tight, and .020 is a bit too loose. Anything else is good. Volvo green manuals agree.