proper way to fireform cases

[sward]

hey all...Just wondering if there is a right or wrong way to fireform cases? And, once fireformed, would it be proper to maintain that fireformed state, bumping the shoulder back after each consecutive fireing on that case?
Also, do you guys usually start working up a load during the forming process or after?

Thanks...Steven

 

[Preacher]

Some folks use Cream Of Wheat and pistol powder to fireform cases, I just like to shoot bullets and powder to do that, you need to breakin the barrel and sight it in anyways so I just do that while fireforming. A few that I have that need that done shoot really good doing it that way so I usually drag along a bunch when I go groundhogging..
They stay formed and I just bump the shoulder back when they need it...
Not a good idea to fireform and work up a load at the same time.
The forming takes up some of the pressure and would not be a true test... Form about 20 cases and then work up a load with them, and fireform more of them when you need to dirty the barrel up... or whatever........

 

[people]

I have a 223AI and I just found a load of 223 that shoot pretty well and shot it as normal. Once I was done shooting those 1000 rds I made a new load for the AI and have not looked back since. I do not know how many you need to do but if it is only 20 the post above seems like a good idea.

 

[sward]

Thanks guys for the info....before, i had worked up a load that did pretty well, however, i am sure could be better...anyhow, i have been FL sizing and returning to the prior load.
in reading on this forum, i gather that just setting the shoulder back a few thousandths instead of FL sizing, a more precise load can be achieved

Please you guys bear with me, as i may ask questions that have been answered thousands of times in the past.....Always been told,"theres no such thing as a stupid question." so i'll stick to it!!!

Thanks!! Steven

 

[NorCalMikie]

The only stupid question? Did I really do that last night. :-[

And you're only talking .001 or .002 on the shoulder bump. No more than needed. If the fired case fits back in the chamber, neck size and reload. Might be 4 or 5 firings before you need to bump. YMMV.

 

[Ackman]

If it forms the case perfectly in one firing, then it's "a" right way. But shooting bullets while fireforming makes a whole lot more sense than taking an extra step with fillers.

Fireforming, just work up a load the same as with a standard cartridge. Expect the same accuracy. Once you've found accuracy that satisfies, that's your fireform load. Velocity will be about midway between the standard case and what you'll be getting with formed brass. Use these loads for varmint hunting and get a perfectly formed case at the same time. It's a win-win situation. After everything's formed, use that same load as a starting point and go up slowly. The load for formed brass will be the same except for a bit more powder.

I just necksize. No need to bump the shoulder unless fired cases chamber hard.

 

[sward]

Thanks Ackman,was wondering about only necksizing, but have read a lot about neck sized only being hard to chamber..... :-\

Guess i'll have to use the old trial and error thing out, huh!?!

Thanks.....Steven