That maybe so however some actions spring just a little. Semiautos lack support thru the cycle. You will need to FL size this brass. Most semiautos require an SB Die {small base}.![]()
^^^Small base dies, in general, are a "Fix" for a problem that's not there.That maybe so however some actions spring just a little. Semiautos lack support thru the cycle. You will need to FL size this brass. Most semiautos require an SB Die {small base}.![]()
That is one opinion. Many people have a very different opinion. I FL size most rifle cases, even for semi-autos. I use the Dillon sizer (SB) for 5.56 partially because my old FL RCBS die was hopelessly scratched and I needed a new die. Dillon was available.^^^Small base dies, in general, are a "Fix" for a problem that's not there.
Very tight "Match" chambers MAY cycle more reliably with SB dies??
If you have a QUALITY Full Length size die, adjusted properly (1/4 to 1/2 turn "Over Cam" of the press), you will not need SB dies.
NATO chambered rifles (5.56/7.62) will NOT be bettered with a Small Base Size Die...Bill.![]()
Thanks for the input robo--you know, I have been away from this Forum for a little while+just thought that I would "Stir some Sheet" HA HA..That is one opinion. Many people have a very different opinion. I FL size most rifle cases, even for semi-autos. I use the Dillon sizer (SB) for 5.56 partially because my old FL RCBS die was hopelessly scratched and I needed a new die. Dillon was available.
I had a Mini-14 MANY years ago that required SB sizing for anything close to reliable functioning. Even then, it sucked and was traded off.
My experience differs from this... I am new to reloading, but read a bunch before attempting to load .223 rounds. I "properly adjusted" my RCBS dies to 1/8-1/4(per instructions) turn over cam. The rounds were reliable and accurate. I then purchased a case length gauge and found that my shoulders had been pushed back too far(out of spec!). The gauge's instructions recommended I toss the brass. In order to properly headspace my brass the die needed to barely touch the shell holder at the top of the pull. My rifle is chambered in 5.56 and still shoots reliably with the new adjustment.BILLYBOB44 said:If you have a QUALITY Full Length size die, adjusted properly (1/4 to 1/2 turn "Over Cam" of the press), you will not need SB dies.
NATO chambered rifles (5.56/7.62) will NOT be bettered with a Small Base Size Die...Bill.![]()
Your theory, CT, is spot on. Where we come into some issues is if the ammo is to be fired in multi guns-not just one particular weapon.My experience differs from this... I am new to reloading, but read a bunch before attempting to load .223 rounds. I "properly adjusted" my RCBS dies to 1/8-1/4(per instructions) turn over cam. The rounds were reliable and accurate. I then purchased a case length gauge and found that my shoulders had been pushed back too far(out of spec!). The gauge's instructions recommended I toss the brass. In order to properly headspace my brass the die needed to barely touch the shell holder at the top of the pull. My rifle is chambered in 5.56 and still shoots reliably with the new adjustment.
My theory: Tight chambered semi auto's may need a small base die. In spec 5.56 chambers should not require them. If you are on the fence about which to buy, get the FL as this will work your brass less. If your gun is not reliable with the fl dies, 1. Sell them to fund he SB dies, or 2. Buy something with an in spec chamber.
Just a greenhorn's opinion after loading a whopping 500 rounds. And no, I didn't toss the 200 out of spec brass. I'm going to shoot them back into spec and do it right next time.