The O-ring test...

[gotcha]

Lee uses lock rings with O-rings in a machined recess. The only problem is that there is no way other than friction to hold them in a specific place on the threads of the die. Another lock ring on top would lock them in place of course.

Yes, but another lock ring on top won't compensate for the "variable " compression of the o-ring.(head space) ......... The Lee lock ring with its channel relies strictly on compression wereas the Salazar method allows the o-ring to compress against the threads on the die creating a different kind of positioning of the die. The more you compress .... the less float you get................ that's how its worked for me..

 

[BoydAllen]

I have used the Lee lock ring with a Hornady lock ring on top of it to lock its position on the die. This setup is an advantage in situations where one has the need to frequently make die adjustments to compensate for case work hardening, such as when one is working with a small set of cases, reloading at the range, similar to the common practice at short range benchrest matches. On the other hand, for situations that do not require frequent die setting changes I prefer the Hornady Lock-n-Load setup that I have an adapter for on my Rock Chucker. Currently, for benchrest like applications, I find that the best solution for precise die adjustment is the PMA Tool Micro Die Adjuster.

 

[jimmymac]

Currently, for benchrest like applications, I find that the best solution for precise die adjustment is the PMA Tool Micro Die Adjuster.

I just went through setting up my Harrell's PPC die to achieve .001" shoulder bump. I have no shims. I do not have the PMA tool, so it certainly took me some trial and error to get things right. I ultimately did, but that PMA tool would have made life way simpler. Next time I set up a die I'll buy the PMA tool to speed things up and alleviate over sizing a couple, three cases.

 

[T-shooter]

Another O-Ring variation. Remove the clip on the top of the ram and replace it with an o-ring on the shell holder. Also lube the contact surfaces. This allows the shell holder to float and align the case as it is inserted into the die.

 

[BoydAllen]

Another O-Ring variation. Remove the clip on the top of the ram and replace it with an o-ring on the shell holder. Also lube the contact surfaces. This allows the shell holder to float and align the case as it is inserted into the die.

I have the O ring on my press rams. A friend took it one step beyond, he chucked up his ram and cut a centered circle at the back of the slot in the top of the ram to allow some float. The slot now resembles an old fashioned keyhole.

 

[IdahoSharpshooter]

Thanks to all, gentlemen. I will be headed to Lowe's shortly...

 

[JRS]

Thanks to all, gentlemen. I will be headed to Lowe's shortly...

The O-ring is a #17

 

[gotcha]

On the other hand, for situations that do not require frequent die setting changes I prefer the Hornady Lock-n-Load setup that I have an adapter for on my Rock Chucker.

That part went right over my head Boyd ....................... Could you explain how this set up works mechanically or better yet a Pic? Tanks, Dale

 

[BoydAllen]

That part went right over my head Boyd ....................... Could you explain how this set up works mechanically or better yet a Pic? Tanks, Dale

The lock-n-load adapter goes in in place of the 7/8-14 adapter in my press. It has has a bayonet style internal configuration that is designed to work with adapters for threaded dies. The die setting is locked to the adapter rather than the press. to change a die, all that is required is a sixth of a turn. I find this handy when switching back and forth between sizing and seating dies when doing load workups at the range, and when experimenting at home, when multiple dies are used. With this, a single stage press can change dies about as quickly as a turret, and the alignment is probably better.
http://www.hornady.com/support/how-lock-n-load-works The drawing does not show that there is an O ring under the flange of the die adapter that keeps it from being accidentally rotated and keeps a slight tension against the lugs so that the die assembly does not drop and move up each time the press is cycled. The vertical position of the die in the press on the upstroke is held by metal to metal contact between the lugs of both adapters, press and die.

 

[Shynloco]

How ? Larry

I'm not Larry, but rather than hard/rigid contact of the die with the press, the O Ring allows the die to "float" (rather than passing on any offset error created by hard contact) to the casing being resized. Been using O rings on my Dies for years after finding I get better runout (regardless of the caliber) vs not having them in place. For those who've never tried it, you can go to the toilet repair section of your local hardware store and buy the appropriate size O Ring that slides over the threaded portion of the die and screw the die into the press and hand tighten, making sure the die "rocks" slightly when tightened. Works for me.

Alex

 

[gotcha]

The lock-n-load adapter goes in in place of the 7/8-14 adapter in my press. It has has a bayonet style internal configuration that is designed to work with adapters for threaded dies. The die setting is locked to the adapter rather than the press. to change a die, all that is required is a sixth of a turn. I find this handy when switching back and forth between sizing and seating dies when doing load workups at the range, and when experimenting at home, when multiple dies are used. With this, a single stage press can change dies about as quickly as a turret, and the alignment is probably better.
http://www.hornady.com/support/how-lock-n-load-works The drawing does not show that there is an O ring under the flange of the die adapter that keeps it from being accidentally rotated and keeps a slight tension against the lugs so that the die assembly does not drop and move up each time the press is cycled. The vertical position of the die in the press on the upstroke is held by metal to metal contact between the lugs of both adapters, press and die.

........................ GOTCHA! Thanks for the input. I didn't realize the adapter utilized an O-ring and frankly, had forgotten about the adapter tool. Old age will do that to you ............. Think I'll buy a few just to experiment with. Thanks again Boyd.

 

[JRS]

And then there's the ball bearing trick

 

[Eddie Harren]

And then there's the ball bearing trick

You big tease you! Tell us dummies about it. Or, are you saving that for the book?

 

[JRS]

You big tease you! Tell us dummies about it. Or, are you saving that for the book?

You're a very smart man, Eddie You can figure it out

 

[Eddie Harren]

You're a very smart man, Eddie You can figure it out

Not me. I'm one of the dummies. Tell us please. Or, I'll wait for the book to come out.
I believe that you guys, who know pretty near everything, should want to help us dummies out. Remember, "What would Hillary do"?

 

[Eddie Harren]

What happened with "Hillary" while thinking, without thinking?


Nothing that I know off. I was referring to you sharing your knowledge with us dummies. Isn't that what Hillary would do?

 

[Nature Boy]

This is how I do it. O rings came from harbor freight

 

[Prose]

I'd like to know what FGuffey does... btw, why was he not nominated for best gunsmith?

 

[BoydAllen]

(Giggle)

 

[Nature Boy]

Rules and factors baby!