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Posted: 3/20/2009 10:12:14 AM EDT
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So I have ordered all my supplies for reloading. Most of the components are on backorder, but they'll show up eventually. Reading the fine print on the package I ordered, however, makes me wonder if I missed something? I want to be able to do the whole 9 yards: Prep fired cases (clean, trim, prime) and reload successfully. Here's what I either already have or have on order for equipment, is there something I've missed? 1. Hornady reloading manual 2. ABC's of reloading (on backorder) 3. Lee Pacesetter dies for .223 4. Lee Anniversary kit 5. digital Caliper 6. Bullet Puller 7. Tumbler kit (incl. media, polish, and sieve) 8. Dillon Super Swage 9. CCI small rifle primers (5000) (on backorder) 10. Wolf Small rifle (magnum) primers (10,000) 11. Hornady .224 bullets (55 Gr. FMJ w/Cannelure) (1500) (on Backorder) 12. Ramshot TAC powder (1 lb, figure I'll try it and then maybe another powder later) (on Backorder) I read today on the bottom of the description for the Lee Anniversary kit that in order to properly resize brass I need a case gauge. Is this just to check size (i.e. I can use the calipers for that) or do I need to go buy something else? Anything else I've missed? |
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Quoted: Maybe I should have specified. My understanding is the basic tools you list above are all a part of the anniversary kit. Here's what the description says: Lee Anniversary Reloading Kit: (Edit to make it easier to read) Challenger Press Powder Measure Safety Scale powder funnel powder data manual cutter lock stud case mouth chamber tool primer pocket cleaner sizing lube Quick Change Bushings And the part I'm concerned about -> NOTE: To use the case cutter and lock stud a specific shell holder and case length gauge is needed for each caliber to be trimmed. The pacesetter dies: Lee Factory Crimp Die bullet seater, roll crimper, shell holder, powder dipper, load data storage box |
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Quoted:
I read today on the bottom of the description for the Lee Anniversary kit that in order to properly resize brass I need a case gauge. Is this just to check size (i.e. I can use the calipers for that) or do I need to go buy something else? IMHO......a case gauge is one of the secrets to getting bottle necked cases to the correct re-size dimension. There are a variety of tools that can be used..........Examples…….. http://www.sinclairintl.com/cgi-bin/category.cgi?category=REMTHT&type=store This is how I do mine. 6) I use a single station press (RCBS Rock Chucker). You could use a progressive Dillon IF you wanted to. It's a personal choice. But, with whatever press you choose, consider shell plate/shell holder and/or press "flex.” I use a regular FL size/de-capper die, NOT the small base dies. To begin, lube your cases. Then, FL size and de-cap, 1 or 2 cases for a test. Gauge the re-sized case(s), to confirm that the "correct size" has been achieved. I use a Forster Products case gauge (the Wilson or Dillon case gauges are also popular choices). Insert a case into the case gauge. The headstamped end of the case, needs to be at or between the high and low cuts on the gauge, to pass. This checks the headspace. While the other end, is used to check if the case will need to be trimmed (a job for later on). IF, it’s not the “correct size,” your die setting will need adjustment. Lower the ram and simply screw the die in or out a little. Don’t forget about the lock nut. Then, re-size another couple of test cases and check your work again. Repeat the test and adjustments, as needed. When you're satisfied that your test cases are properly re-sized, do the entire lot (remember to test some cases throughout the run). What you do, or don't do, is up to you. Aloha, Mark |
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If you use the Lee cutter and lock stud to trim cases, you will also need a 223 Rem Case Length Gauge & Shell Holder. The gauge part screws into the cutter and the shell holder screws onto the lock stud. The Lee kit comes with a combination chamfer/deburr tool. It will work, but I like to use a VLD type chamfer tool. This tool has a different cutting angle and makes the case mouth far less prone to damage the base of the bullet as it is seated.
I just noticed that you are already aware that you need the case length gauge & shell holder - disregard original post. |
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You need this
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=107333 These will be handy http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=174316 http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=136199 http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?productnumber=352653 I also bought another caliper with a dial because I got sick of having to turn my digital on after it sat for a few min's and also having the batteries go dead in the middle of what I was doing Also get a case gauge from lyman or wilson. Savers alot of trouble with sizing and headspace GOOD lUCK |
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Quoted:
Why the magnum primers? They are used for very limited purposes. Follow a reloading book to the T. No, they aren't. The rest of your advice is correct for noobs with no help available. However, the current situation with components is going to put new reloaders in a bind if they take that path. They're going to need to buy what components they can find. So, the way around the problem is to ask for help, and someone here will get you sorted out. Every new reloader needs to read the articles in this link: http://www.ar15.com/content/page.html?id=400 |
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