Experienced neck turners, need your advice!

[NilesCoyote]

Experienced neck turners, need your advice!

I have a new 223 with a .251” neck chamber. Prior to getting the rifle I purchased some Lapua cases to use in it. With a bullet seated in the new case the O.D. measures .250”

I am not new to neck turning but I have never done more than hit the high spots.

My question is how much clearance is required for safety, is it safe to run .001" under.

 

[spclark]

I would say no, not unless you're very careful with your brass prep & loading. For safety I'd want at least .002" difference, maybe .003" to put a little more space between the brass and the chamber.

 

[jo191145]

I'd agree with spclark. In the old days some Benchresters ran at .001".
Before I got into the sport they figured out .002" was just as good if not better.
Judging by the cartridge and your moniker this gun will be taken off the bench and into the field
That should put you into the .0025 -.003 category.

 

[NilesCoyote]

That should put you into the .0025 -.003 category.

Thank you both, that is what I will do.

 

[Joe O]

With the Lapua brass,I would take at least a cleaning cut,like you are used to doing.I would look for at least .002 less for the loaded round,from the chamber. .003 would be OK.Different brass may require more turning.

 

[TheBlueEyedBear]

If your gun is a single shot; and if you have not experienced any pressure issues, go for it. If you prefer better accuracy, then turn the necks just to skim them and to make them concentric.

 

[NilesCoyote]

I turned them down .0015 to .002 and all went well, no pressure signs. I like this set up, necks only needed to be sized down about .002" after firing.

 

[Clark]

My 223 reamer is a custom, with .250" neck.

I have never turned a 223 neck.

I chose .250" because that has clearance for all the 223 ammo I make.