I have run into the issue when reloading OF cases that the rims will not fit into the case gauge after resizing and trimming. I've removed the ejection pin on a spare bolt and verify they fit the bolt but I would like to know if I there is a tool that would allow me to trim the rims so the case would slide completely into the case gauge?
Rim Sizing
- Thread starter dvo1955
- Start date
What caliber? Any chance it's a belted magnum ... like 300 Win Mag?
FeMan
Gold $$ Contributor
When I was shooting 300WSM and using factory once fired of different manufacturers, I found that the diameter of the rims varied significantly. They all fit in the bolt but some wouldn't fit the shell holder. I have reloaded over 40 years and never encountered that before. In seemed to clearly be manufacturing tolerances in my case. I just went with different brass.
47WillysGuy
Gold $$ Contributor
OF cases? Is that "Once Fired" cases? What is the brand of cases you're having problems.
Try turning the case around and only inserting the rim. If the rim will go in, then you have an expanded case. You don't say what cal and type rifle you are shooting them from. If it is a semi auto, this is a common problem and requires a short based die.
I'm reloading for a semi auto 308. I'm using a RCBS full length die with a Hornady 308 case gauge. When I run across a case where the rim does not fit in I do turn it over and to my surprise the rim does fit in the gauge but when I slide it into the gauge normally the rim still protrudes from the gauge. I am not familiar with a short based die. Do I need to switch and if so do I resize with one and then the other or will the short based die do the job. The OF brass came from a range so I am unaware what type of weapons were used. This has become very frustrating since many of the rounds I have redone are functional but I still get the occasional round that won't chamber correctly and jams. Very confused and frustrated.
The small base die is designed to resize the brass past the slight bulge near the base of the case. You should be able to see a slight line about 1/4 inch above the base of the case. This is where the case is not supported in the bore of the AR. Using a Caliper you can measure the difference in diameter. It only takes a few thousands difference to cause problems.
When you set up the die in you press, raise the press all the way up, screw the dies in till it touches the ram and lower the ram and lower the die 1/4 turn and lock it down. This will assure that the small base die forms the case all the way and will bump the shoulder a slight amount. It will also assure that your reloaded cartridges will fit any rifle you choose of that caliber.
You only need to get the small base die, which can be purchased singularly. No need to buy a new seating die.
When you set up the die in you press, raise the press all the way up, screw the dies in till it touches the ram and lower the ram and lower the die 1/4 turn and lock it down. This will assure that the small base die forms the case all the way and will bump the shoulder a slight amount. It will also assure that your reloaded cartridges will fit any rifle you choose of that caliber.
You only need to get the small base die, which can be purchased singularly. No need to buy a new seating die.
47WillysGuy
Gold $$ Contributor
Range brass is always suspect, if you don’t know what gun the brass came from, are you sure it’s even once fired.
If you’re going to use OF range brass, clean it up, size it, cut to length, and test it with a case gage. If it fails, toss it to recycle box and sell it.
The cases that don’t pass maybe banana shaped and that’s why they’re failing. One side of the case is thinner than the other side.
My recommendation would be to start fresh by purchase of premium brass (100 Ct) and analyze the brass after each firing using good micrometers and a dial indicator. Keep good notes and!
Best of luck!
If you’re going to use OF range brass, clean it up, size it, cut to length, and test it with a case gage. If it fails, toss it to recycle box and sell it.
The cases that don’t pass maybe banana shaped and that’s why they’re failing. One side of the case is thinner than the other side.
My recommendation would be to start fresh by purchase of premium brass (100 Ct) and analyze the brass after each firing using good micrometers and a dial indicator. Keep good notes and!
Best of luck!
Upgrades & Donations
This Forum's expenses are primarily paid by member contributions. You can upgrade your Forum membership in seconds. Gold and Silver members get unlimited FREE classifieds for one year. Gold members can upload custom avatars.
Click Upgrade Membership Button ABOVE to get Gold or Silver Status.
You can also donate any amount, large or small, with the button below. Include your Forum Name in the PayPal Notes field.
To DONATE by CHECK, or make a recurring donation, CLICK HERE to learn how.
Click Upgrade Membership Button ABOVE to get Gold or Silver Status.
You can also donate any amount, large or small, with the button below. Include your Forum Name in the PayPal Notes field.
To DONATE by CHECK, or make a recurring donation, CLICK HERE to learn how.