38 Special/.357 Dies Work?

[Ernest T]

Are all 38 Special dies able to reload .357 cases too? I've seen some that state they will reload both and others that don't specifically say they will. Since you screw the die in or out depending on which caliber you are reloading, it seems like all of them should be capable of doing it.

 

[Flouncer]

I asked the same thing a while back. Take a look here -

https://forum.accurateshooter.com/threads/38spl-357-mag-dies.4059862/

 

[Flouncer]

Redding Die Spacer Kit

Redding Die Spacers allow for quick compensation for case length, partial resizing, or to make a no-crimp adjustment without the need to move the...

www.midwayusa.com

 

[ASD9055]

RCBS come wiht a spacer. I ahve been using them for 30 years

 

[K22]

All modern 38 Special / 357 Magnum dies within the last 40 years that I'm aware of reload both and it's quite easy to switch from one to the other cartridge. But to be sure, I would check with the die mfg.

 

[rr2030]

They also load .357 Maximum

 

[divingin]

Only difference is case length. The spacers make it easy to change between the two. Without the spacers, you unscrew the die for 357 or screw it in for 38 (and spend time fiddling to adjust.) This assumes, however, that you're using the same case mouth to bullet tip length for both (else you need to adjust seating depth.) The shims are primarily so you don't need to adjust crimp every time.

 

[Ernest T]

I asked the same thing a while back. Take a look here -

https://forum.accurateshooter.com/threads/38spl-357-mag-dies.4059862/

Thanks!

 

[Ernest T]

Appreciate the info. In reality, I'll probably load ninety nine 38 specials for every .357 case I reload, so a little tweaking when loading the .357 isn't an issue. Same or 44 Special and 44 Magnum.

 

[Chasin Beaver]

I am guessing you can’t use shims with Hornady lock n load inserts? Shame.