I'm adjusting my new rear brakes (9" drums) and there seems to be a lot of open territory regarding how "snug" or how much resistance there should be. I'm concerned about adjusting them out too much and causing problems. Using a non contact IR temp gun, after a 15 mile ride that was mostly open road, one side registered 150° and the other side 125°. Both readings were taken in the same spot (trailing shoe contact area). Other than one side being snugger than the other, what operating temps are considered normal? Outside temp is 60°.........

 

I don't think I've ever checked that! I wouldn't consider that temp anywhere near a problem though.
I'd just adjust them until they start to make contact..listen while turning the wheel by hand...then back them off until the noise stops. The auto adjusters will take it from there.