Advice in using Wilson seater die.

[GentleBen]

I recently bought an L.E. Wilson stainless steel micrometer seater die and Harrell's arbor press for 6mmBR loading. I have always used Redding Competition micrometer threaded dies in the past with good results. But so many recommended the Wilson in-line seater, that I invested in one and an arbor press.

But, I hate to admit it, I am a little confused about getting started with it. Do you adjust the micrometer all the way up, or all the way down to start ... or the middle. And, how high do you adjust the plunger?

I was trying to set it up for 80gr Bergers last night and it drove me crazy. I had to end up seating a bullet in the Redding Comp die to proper depth, then took the round out and put it in the Wilson to get a setting. I hope I don't have to do this with every bullet I want to load ... afraid I will. With the Redding you really only have one variable.

Believe me, I want to learn to use the Wilson seater properly because I like the way it feels. Can any of you help, or point me to an article that explains the Wilson's use better.

 

[GentleBen]

By the way, I read all the instructions that came with the Wilson seater die ... three times, and I am an editor and must say it is poorly written and assumes you know all there is to using their product.

 

[robbor]

I always start with a longer OAL when adjusting my dies, its really no different for the wilson. Adjust the micrometer up then measure your OAL or comparator reading and adjust the die down. Its much easier to make your OAL shorter than longer.