243 Die sets

[DLH_]

In the market for a new die set for 243. I'm looking at both Forster and Redding dies, money is no object. Which would you say are the best, got a lot of good experience with the type S Redding and comp seating die (the one with the free floating sleeve construction). Could you please advice on which would be the best or a die set you've have good experience with.

Thanks
Josh

 

[370bc]

I would be interested as well. Would custom dies be worth entertaining? I get 1/2 MOA from a rebarreled factory rifle for coyote hunting. Is there any reason to get tighter groups?

 

[K22]

If you're game is hunting or informal target shooting I'd opt for the Redding or RCBS standard full sizing die set. These are capable of producing high quality reloads for precision varmint shooting IF you learn how to properly adjust them for optimum sizing.

I've produced reloads in the 1/4 moa range for my heavy varmint rifle with Douglas Match barrel.

 

[Predator1]

I like the Forster sets myself and I have Reddings also. My favorite setup is to neck size with the Lee Collet Die and seat with the Forster Ultra Seater.

 

[DLH_]

Sorry I should have clarified, I'm looking for a die that will reduce my runout a tad. The rifle is a very capable, full custom. I've got 3 loads that are in the .1s at a 100. I've got good standard deviation, around 5fps. At 300 yards things seem to open up drastically, the only variable that's not great is runout. I'm seating using a standard RCBS seater and sizing with an RCBS neck sizer, bumping the shoulder 2 thou back.

Thanks
Josh

 

[Eric Leonard]

I like Redding FL-S Bushing size dies and the Forester Ultra Micrometer seater dies,,,how are you bumping the shoulder back with the RCBS neck size die??

 

[DLH_]

I'm sorry, I meant to say when I full length not neck. Apologies

Thanks
Josh

 

[rafale]

I have a Whidden 243 FL sizer and micro seater very happy with!

Michel

 

[sdbob]

Have you tried rotating the cartridge during seating, do it in two steps. Half way in with the bullet, then turn it 180 and finish.

 

[243winxb]

Using Winchester brass.

 

[243winxb]

Sizing only half the neck is more accurate for me with the Redding S die.

I think a custom FL sizing die made from 3 fired brass from your rifle , may give the best fit.
But die should have a custom neck diameter and then neck turn the brass so no expander is used.
Aim for .002" neck tension. Have not done it.

 

[lloydx2]

Talk to John Whidden (whidden gunworks) he knows more about
long range 243 and components than anyone out there. He is your
one stop shop. Regards Lloyd