Full length or neck resize
- Thread starter Popa ray
- Start date
Better focus on neck tension than the limited advantage neck sizeing alone will deliver in a sporting rifle so invest in a Redding reloading set that has the neck bushing die.
That said the exception for me is 22 Hornet which I've never full length sized so feel free to experiment with whatever you're reloading and come to your own conclusion.
All the best
K
That said the exception for me is 22 Hornet which I've never full length sized so feel free to experiment with whatever you're reloading and come to your own conclusion.
All the best
K
I have done both. Neck size only works the brass less so in theory results in more reloadings per case unless you are annealing. With full length sizing and the correct sized case holder you can knock the shoulders back by 2 thou and give yourself a bit more room in the chamber. I have not found concentricity is particularly better with either method and FWIW I now full size everything. But do check how far the shoulders are being set back with your die set up - more than 2 thou and you are probably working it a bit too much.
Yes, if using a regular FL die and you set it up correctly.
May I suggest you get a good reloading manual and read-up on your options if you've not already. There are a number of variables/options within both the approaches you've mentioned.
K
Ps: The die set I suggested has three dies but as you appear to be very new to all this probably best to stick to a standard 2 die set unless you must achieve true neck sizing only as distinct from partial sizing of both neck and body.
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I usually have a few rifles in a given chambering so I always FL resize. A wise person got me away from custom loading for each individual rifle and instead, striving to make an ammuniton that works well in all of them -like the best Match factory ammo. It is not hard to do and allows me to spend more time shooting and less time reloading and taking notes. Measuring. Fretting.....~Muir
(When I do neck size it's in specific cases, for a reason other than accuracy. I also neck size Hornet as the exception to my general rule.)
(When I do neck size it's in specific cases, for a reason other than accuracy. I also neck size Hornet as the exception to my general rule.)
The Lee collet ultimate die set is one to consider; very good value, for under 50 quid you get a full length sizer, neck sizer, seating die and a crimp die. The neck sizing die is actually pretty clever, it works using petals that clamp down on a mandrel, then release as you pull the lever back up, this means you don't stretch the neck of the brass at all. Really is an underrated little die set and certainly something to consider if you're new to reloading and don't want to spend a fortune. Spud realoading sells them I believe.
Have a word with Norman Clark. I'm still in the 1970's when it comes to reloading manuals and things have no doubt moved on. If you can get to the Bisley Phoenix Meeting & Tradeshow next BH Weekend he will have plenty of reading material for sale.
K
Malxwal
Well-Known Member
Depends on your objectives and budget. If you're trying to save money and load for hunting rifles, I'd go with a Lee Ultimate set, so you can use the collet neck sizing die until such times as your brass gets tight to chamber, then FL size.
If you're going down the uber accuracy target road, then bushing type FL dies, and find a friend who has invested in a good annealing setup.
If you're going down the uber accuracy target road, then bushing type FL dies, and find a friend who has invested in a good annealing setup.
Highlandsjohn
Well-Known Member
I can understand fls if you have more than one rifle or multiple of the same calibre,like Muir. I cannot understand fls new brass fire formed in your one rifle, the brass is now made to measure for your chamber. Neck size it using a lee neck size die until it requires fls after five or so firings.john
Assuming the chamber is concentric. If there's runout you may encounter problems sooner than 5 firings. Some cartridges lend themselves to NS only more than others IMHO.
K
K
My 243 brass is federal premium and 222 brass is Norma.
Ray
I full length size but only because I get all my brass from clients and friends who don't reload, never had to buy brass in thirty years of reloading, if I was just reloading my own brass I would probably neck size.
I have a neck sizing die but find it easier to just full size everything.
I have a neck sizing die but find it easier to just full size everything.
Highlandsjohn
Well-Known Member
Its easy enough to check your fire-formed brass fits your chamber. When the brass is prepared and ready for loading, carefully run it through your rifle before loading it. I have had nine firings with Fed brass, before I had to fls but I never load hot..
It really all depends on how much time you want to spend at the reloading bench. Remember,some of us shoot in order to reload and some reload in order to shoot..but I repeat myself.. good luck whatever the road takes you,it is a very satisfying part of your sport..
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