I want to build my next rifle as well, accurately as possible. From my research this would include ordering a custom reamer and maybe a custom full length sizing die. I've always just used the gunsmiths reamer and bought off the shelf dies, so this is new to me.
Do these steps make sense?
1) Order brass and bullets.
2) Expand, Neck trim, just enough to clean up necks, about .001" in my experience.
3) Uniform brass length + chamfer, I realize this is typically done later, but if you are ordering a custom reamer, why not do it now?
4) Seat a bullet long (single shot.) I can use quickload to get an idea of how it will perform since I have Ba values for the powder I'll be using.
5) Send the loaded uncharged round to PTG and have them make a custom reamer based on my case dimensions, neck diameter, neck length, suggested bullet jump from the manufacturer.
6) Send the reamer, action, barrel to my gunsmith.
7) Order a custom full length sizer die (Warner) -or- buy a Forster full length sizer die honed to my neck diameter. If my reamer is close to saami spec I could probably get away with the Forster. If I'm not overworking my brass and concentricity is good, stick with it.
Of course the nice thing about doing it the long way is that future barrels will have the same chamber. Brass should be minimally worked, and concentricity should be excellent.
Questions:
- Do these steps look good?
- What clearance should I specify for neck diameter and length ( I think .005" on diameter and .01" on length, but what to be sure.)
Thank you.
Do these steps make sense?
1) Order brass and bullets.
2) Expand, Neck trim, just enough to clean up necks, about .001" in my experience.
3) Uniform brass length + chamfer, I realize this is typically done later, but if you are ordering a custom reamer, why not do it now?
4) Seat a bullet long (single shot.) I can use quickload to get an idea of how it will perform since I have Ba values for the powder I'll be using.
5) Send the loaded uncharged round to PTG and have them make a custom reamer based on my case dimensions, neck diameter, neck length, suggested bullet jump from the manufacturer.
6) Send the reamer, action, barrel to my gunsmith.
7) Order a custom full length sizer die (Warner) -or- buy a Forster full length sizer die honed to my neck diameter. If my reamer is close to saami spec I could probably get away with the Forster. If I'm not overworking my brass and concentricity is good, stick with it.
Of course the nice thing about doing it the long way is that future barrels will have the same chamber. Brass should be minimally worked, and concentricity should be excellent.
Questions:
- Do these steps look good?
- What clearance should I specify for neck diameter and length ( I think .005" on diameter and .01" on length, but what to be sure.)
Thank you.