Does the .223Rem case need frequent trimming

[Geezedtee]

Assuming loads at the safe top of pressure, do the .223 cases (Lapua) have a tendendency to lengthen, like the 6.5x55SE does?

 

[NZ_Fclass]

Dunno - the primers have usually rattled loose well before the need for trimming. It's been a while since I have seen any Lapua 223 brass too. I'm using Lake City as an alternative.

 

[Walt Krafft]

Not all cases in a lot will stretch the same. I had some extreme pressure events from long cases once, when I only spot checked case length. It was a case that wasnt supposed to need regular trimming, PPC. I got a trimmer that also chamfers inside and out, so now every case goes through it every time. The type of rifle makes a difference too. Autos stretch more than bolt guns.

 

[charlie b]

Lapua does not. I only trim them after about 10 reloads and some are barely touched. The batch I just 'retired' had 30 reloads on them and no split necks. None were annealed. I usually load to just below max.

As mentioned above, the other brands lose pockets well before that. I got frustrated with LC, Hornady and Federal brass only lasting 4 reloads.

 

[NF1E]

Have not seen that with any of the recent production Lapua .223 cases. They have performed beautifully. Whatta Hobby!

 

[NorCalMikie]

Depends on which type of resizing dies you use. Precision bump dies won't let the OAL of the case grow like standard full length dies do.

 

[K22]

Get a Sinclair Chamber length gauge and measure your chamber. They are not expensive. If you have cases dedicated to a specific rifle, you may be able to extend the interval between trimmings by over 50%, at least that has been my experience for some rifle even applying Sinclair's recommended safety factor.

I check the length every reload cycle. It only takes a few minutes in the batch sizes I reload (20 to40 cases) per reloading session. As others have mentioned, not all cases expand the same. The measurement will tell if and when you need to trim cases - it's that simple!

When I do have to trim, I trim back 0.10" from the maximum length measured with the chamber length gauge so I am not over trimming the cases.

 

[markm87]

Depends on your set up. If you pull an expander ball without some lube in the neck, yeah. It'll stretch.

My brass barely needs any trim because I expand my necks on the down stroke with a neck expander die, but I run it through the Giraud just because it chamfers the mouths.

 

[ajfpa]

Measure Your Chamber Length with Home-Made Modified Case « Daily Bulletin

We are sad to report that long-time Forum member Frank S. (aka fdShuster) passed away last year. Frank was a very knowledgeable shooter who was always willing to help others. Here is one of Frank's smart inventions. He devised a way to measure the length of a rifle's chamber using a fired...

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This my help you, if you don't want to buy a Sinclair gauge.

 

[std7mag]

I'm running Starline brass. Haven't really noticed a "need" to trim.
But I check trim every reload anyways. Just part of my procedure.
I use a Lee case length gauge and a cordless drill.

 

[mikecr]

Depends on your sizing.
With minimal sizing, beyond initial trimming, I don't ever have to mess with them again.

 

[SecondsCount]

I trim LC brass .005" under max and shoot them in a bolt action chamber that is on the tighter side. After bumping .002", I barely see any growth.

My load is warm, but definitely not hot.

 

[DLT]

Have not seen that with any of the recent production Lapua .223 cases. They have performed beautifully. Whatta Hobby!

View attachment 1697792View attachment 1697793View attachment 1697795

Please post how long it takes for a doughnut to form in the neck. Even if your seating above it. Thanks

 

[DLT]

I'm running Starline brass. Haven't really noticed a "need" to trim.
But I check trim every reload anyways. Just part of my procedure.
I use a Lee case length gauge and a cordless drill.

Those are the ticket. All I use

 

[NF1E]

Please post how long it takes for a doughnut to form in the neck. Even if your seating above it. Thanks

Sizing with a Forster fl bushing die with expander ball removed with a .245 bushing and then using the Sinclair carbide tapered expander mandrel and annealing after every firing, donuts have never been a problem other than those that are eaten and their effect on the waistline.