Split lock ring trick

[BoydAllen]

I think that we have all done it, screw a die into a press and spin a loose split lock ring down onto the top of the press, finger tight, and then tighten the screw that tightens the lock ring to the die. The problem comes when we try to remove the die, it is wedged so tight that tools are required, or loosening the lock ring, which risks losing the die setting.

This is how you avoid the problem. Before you screw the die into the press, put the lock ring on it and partially tighten it to the point where there is some drag when you turn it on the die, then proceed as above. When you need to remove the die, just grasp it firmly and twist. It will come out without tools or loosening the ring. I could get into a long winded explanation, but I will let you figure it out, and post it here if you like.

 

[K22]

I've used a memory mark with a sharpie on the lock ring and die but I like BoydAllen's method better.

 

[Webster]

I think that we have all done it, screw a die into a press and spin a loose split lock ring down onto the top of the press, finger tight, and then tighten the screw that tightens the lock ring to the die. The problem comes when we try to remove the die, it is wedged so tight that tools are required, or loosening the lock ring, which risks losing the die setting.

This is how you avoid the problem. Before you screw the die into the press, put the lock ring on it and partially tighten it to the point where there is some drag when you turn it on the die, then proceed as above. When you need to remove the die, just grasp it firmly and twist. It will come out without tools or loosening the ring. I could get into a long winded explanation, but I will let you figure it out, and post it here if you like.

I put a small piece of rosin core solder under the screw. This prevents the die threads from getting damaged.

 

[M-61]

Lee’s “breech lock” set up is great.
I switched a couple of RCBS presses to this.
Oh, because of the sale price I purchased Lee’s cast iron press. I have 7 mounted presses and didn’t need it, but it is a monster. Even though presses have nothing to do with the finished product, I can’t help myself. That Lee is very impressive.

 

[SeabeeKen]

Lee’s “breech lock” set up is great.
I switched a couple of RCBS presses to this.
Oh, because of the sale price I purchased Lee’s cast iron press. I have 7 mounted presses and didn’t need it, but it is a monster. Even though presses have nothing to do with the finished product, I can’t help myself. That Lee is very impressive.

It was expensive to switch over but i changed over to the breech lock. Great system. Took my coax off the bench

 

[6.5 forever]

I'm using Whidden click adjustable sizing die. I'm very impressed with the accuracy and ease of use.

 

[Paul's Black Rifles]

I put a small piece of rosin core solder under the screw. This prevents the die threads from getting damaged.

I use an anvil from a small rifle primer underneath the setscrew on dies so equipped. I got tired of cleaning lead shot out of dies. Brass is so much better in my opinion.

 

[HighlandLofts]

I use the Hornady Lock n Load system and couldn't be any happier.

 

[Cloudrepair]

Lee’s “breech lock” set up is great.
I switched a couple of RCBS presses to this.
Oh, because of the sale price I purchased Lee’s cast iron press. I have 7 mounted presses and didn’t need it, but it is a monster. Even though presses have nothing to do with the finished product, I can’t help myself. That Lee is very impressive.

Do you have a picture of that Lee cast iron one .
I haven't seen one of those and very interested.
I need a big monster press.

 

[Kracken McGraw]

I use an anvil from a small rifle primer underneath the setscrew on dies so equipped. I got tired of cleaning lead shot out of dies. Brass is so much better in my opinion.

I switched all mine to the aluminum Forster lock rings. The aluminum seems to grab tighter against the steel bushing on the Rockchucker, and doesn’t have the tendency to come loose on it’s own.

 

[Kracken McGraw]

Back to Boyd’s original post, I can’t wait to try his method.

 

[Webster]

I use an anvil from a small rifle primer underneath the setscrew on dies so equipped. I got tired of cleaning lead shot out of dies. Brass is so much better in my opinion.

Once I get a die adjusted it stays the same setting for years. No lead removal problem.

 

[M-61]

Do you have a picture of that Lee cast iron one .
I haven't seen one of those and very interested.
I need a big monster press.

 

[M-61]

That’s the best I could do as it keeps saying the image is too big
What’s really BIG is those links!

 

[M-61]

That’s the best I could do as it keeps saying the image is too big

You want a monster press?
This is it. I have an RCBS A-4 which undoubtedly was the champion. A Hollywood Senior crazy strong. Neither is any longer available at a reasonable price and the Hollywood’s you have to be concerned with whether it’s real or not.
This Lee press is reasonable price wise. The design is superior in some ways. ( handle attachment the best way it can be done)
Of course I’m not testing anything for strength but that Lee Cast Iron is running up in first place if you want massive construction.
I just like presses and any hand tools.
Remember the press has zero to do with accuracy, but usability combined with the strength to F/L size anything including 50 BMG.
The so called ‘ breech lock’ ( interrupted threads) works perfectly.
And now I’m done with any split rings and the correct way to secure them. ( only works some of the time, you’re going for a wrench now and then)

 

[M-61]

Lee Classic Cast Press

Lee Classic Cast Press New for 2020! Now includes Breech Lock Bushing update kit. The largest opening in the industry and the longest stroke– handle is adjustable to provide the least travel of any press. Rigid cast iron construction in a classic “O” design for maximum strength. Baked powder...

www.titanreloading.com

 

[Cloudrepair]

Lee’s “breech lock” set up is great.
I switched a couple of RCBS presses to this.
Oh, because of the sale price I purchased Lee’s cast iron press. I have 7 mounted presses and didn’t need it, but it is a monster. Even though presses have nothing to do with the finished product, I can’t help myself. That Lee is very impressive.

Do you have a picture of that Lee cast iron one .
I haven't seen one of those and very interested.
I need a big monster press

You want a monster press?
This is it. I have an RCBS A-4 which undoubtedly was the champion. A Hollywood Senior crazy strong. Neither is any longer available at a reasonable price and the Hollywood’s you have to be concerned with whether it’s real or not.
This Lee press is reasonable price wise. The design is superior in some ways. ( handle attachment the best way it can be done)
Of course I’m not testing anything for strength but that Lee Cast Iron is running up in first place if you want massive construction.
I just like presses and any hand tools.
Remember the press has zero to do with accuracy, but usability combined with the strength to F/L size anything including 50 BMG.
The so called ‘ breech lock’ ( interrupted threads) works perfectly.
And now I’m done with any split rings and the correct way to secure them. ( only works some of the time, you’re going for a wrench now and then)

Thanks that gives me an idea of what you were talking about

 

[fkimble@charter.net]

I'm with Webster. Adjust, lock it, forget it. I do use Skip's shims if a new barrel needs more length than my minimum headspace adjusted dies.

Frank

 

[JMA]

I put a small piece of rosin core solder under the screw. This prevents the die threads from getting damaged.

he is talking about split rings the screw does not tighten onto the die threads

 

[SEM]

I have to stop reading this stuff now I think I need to try the Lee press,