25-06AI Redding Type S Bushings

[mghoodlum]

I've been lurking and learning for a few months and now I have a question that I haven't been able to find the answer to. I am having a 25-06 AI being built by West Texas Ordinance and plan on purchasing a set of redding dies including the Type S bushing die. I was hoping to get everything ordered prior to the gun being finished in April but i was not certain what size bushings to order. I have read how to size the bushings but as I do not have any brass yet so I cannot measure the case neck thickness. I was also considering necking down Lapua '06 brass for use but do not want to turn necks so will probably just go with either Remington or Winchester and prep them. I forgot to mention the chamber will be a no turn, but a tighter neck than most factory rifles. My questions are:

1. If I were to use Lapua Brass was bushing sizes would you recommend?
2. Do you think I would have to turn or ream the necks of Lapua Brass?
3. Does anyone know the average neck thickness of Winchester or Remington Brass?
4. If choosing between Winchester or Remington Brass which one would you recommend.

 

[arizonajake]

Here's my 2 cent's worth:

1. - I use non-bushing type 25-06 AI Redding dies - I see no advantage in bushing dies for this carttridge and I adjust the die in the press so it only only sizes the neck.
2.- If you are necking down .30-06 brass to 25-06, it is always a good idea to neck turn the brass prior to sizing it down. Turn the brass just enought to make sure it 'cleans-up".
3.- Neck size thickness varies from lot to lot for each brand, so it is almost impossible to call an average neck thickness. Your best bet is to buy at least 200 cases and sort by weight prior to processing them.
4.- Winchester brass usually holds more powder and lasts longer than Remington, as it has been my experience.

BTW... Too bad Barnes quit making the 100 gr. blue-coated XCL bullets in .25 caliber. My AI loves them with Reloder 19, producing muzzle velocities of 3540 fps avg. One mule deer and one Coues deer have already died instantly when zapped by these little lighting bolts.

I am nowto Nosler AccuBonds, but can't get the desirable accuracy with H4831. Will be trying different primers...